Winslow Homer (artist). "Thanksgiving in Camp." 1862. Wood engraving. National Gallery of Art. Collection 1958.3.14. Credit line: Print Purchase Fund (Rosenwald Collection). Retrieved from National Gallery of Art: https://purl.org/nga/collection/artobject/45618.
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How Thanksgiving Became a National Holiday
Thanksgiving is a cherished holiday in the United States, where families and friends come together to express gratitude for their blessings. But have you ever wondered how Thanksgiving became a national holiday? Let's take a journey back in time to explore the origins and development of this beloved celebration.
The story of Thanksgiving as a national holiday begins with Sarah Josepha Hale, an influential writer and editor of the 19th century. Hale believed that Thanksgiving should be celebrated on a national level, as a unifying force for the country. She wrote numerous articles and letters advocating for a national day of thanks, and her efforts caught the attention of President Abraham Lincoln.
In 1863, during the midst of the Civil War, President Lincoln issued a proclamation declaring Thanksgiving a national holiday. He hoped that this new tradition would help bring the divided nation together. Since then, Thanksgiving has been celebrated annually on the fourth Thursday of November.
However, the history of Thanksgiving dates back even further. The first Thanksgiving is often associated with the Pilgrims and Native Americans in Plymouth, Massachusetts, in 1621. The Pilgrims, who were early European settlers, had successfully harvested their first bountiful crop and wanted to express their gratitude. They invited the Native Americans, who had taught them essential agricultural techniques, to join in the feast. This event is often seen as the origin of Thanksgiving.
Over the years, Thanksgiving evolved and took on different forms. It was celebrated sporadically in various states and regions, with different dates and customs. Some states even had multiple Thanksgiving days. It wasn't until Hale's campaign and President Lincoln's proclamation that Thanksgiving became a unified national holiday.
Today, Thanksgiving is not only a time for feasting on delicious food but also a time for reflection and appreciation. Families gather around the table, sharing stories and memories while expressing gratitude for the blessings in their lives. It is a reminder to be thankful for the abundance and opportunities we have, as well as an opportunity to extend a helping hand to those in need.
As you celebrate Thanksgiving with your loved ones, remember the history behind this national holiday. Give thanks for the unity it brings and for the diverse cultures and traditions that make up our great nation.
Remember, the true spirit of Thanksgiving lies in gratitude, compassion, and coming together. Happy Thanksgiving!
Note: The history and origins of Thanksgiving are complex and debated among historians. This text provides a general overview of how Thanksgiving became a national holiday, but it is important to further explore different perspectives and sources for a deeper understanding.
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