Thanksgiving: The history behind America’s beloved holiday | Headline News

Thanksgiving, an important holiday celebrated in the United States and Canada, is a time for reflection, gratitude, and sharing a rich feast with loved ones. Although its origins date back to the Pilgrim Harvest Festival of 1621, Thanksgiving has evolved into a deeply rooted tradition steeped in symbolism and cherished customs. History of Thanksgiving…

Thanksgiving, an important holiday celebrated in the United States and Canada, is a time for reflection, gratitude, and sharing a rich feast with loved ones. Although its origins date back to the Pilgrim Harvest Festival of 1621, Thanksgiving has evolved into a deeply rooted tradition steeped in symbolism and cherished customs.

history of thanksgiving
In 1620, a group of English religious separatists known as the Pilgrims sought refuge from persecution in the New World. Arriving on the shores of Plymouth, Massachusetts, the group faced harsh winters and dwindling food supplies. With the help of the indigenous Wampanoag people, they learned how to till the land and survive the harsh winters. In 1621, the Pilgrims hosted a feast for their Native American neighbors to express their gratitude for the bountiful harvest and the assistance of the Wampanoags. This event is widely known as North America’s first Thanksgiving celebration.

Changes in national holidays
Thanksgiving celebrations continued sporadically throughout the 18th century, but it wasn’t until the time of President Abraham Lincoln that the holiday gained national recognition. In 1863, during the height of the Civil War, Lincoln proclaimed the fourth Thursday of his November as a national day of thanksgiving, urging Americans to express their gratitude for the blessings of the past year.

Thanksgiving traditions:
Thanksgiving has become synonymous with a treasure trove of traditions, each adding their own thread to the traditions of this beloved holiday.

thanksgiving feast

The centerpiece of every Thanksgiving celebration is the feast, a culinary symphony of traditional cuisine. The star of the show is definitely the roast turkey, which is often served with a variety of side dishes such as mashed potatoes, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and a variety of fall vegetables. Pumpkin pie’s rich, velvety texture and warm, comforting flavor make it a top dessert choice.

Turkish amnesty
A unique and cheerful tradition associated with Thanksgiving is the presidential pardon of turkeys. Every year, the President of the United States receives two live turkeys as a gift. At a White House ceremony, the president chooses one turkey to “pardon” and grant a reprieve from the Thanksgiving table. Forgiven turkeys are sent to shelters to live out their lives in peace.

thanksgiving donation
The spirit of Thanksgiving extends beyond feasts and festivities. It’s a time to give back to the community and show gratitude to those less fortunate. Many people embody the essence of the holiday by volunteering at local soup kitchens, donating to charities, and participating in food drives.

Thanksgiving: A festival of gratitude and abundance
With its rich history and cherished traditions, Thanksgiving is a poignant reminder of the importance of expressing gratitude for life’s blessings. It’s a time to reflect on the abundance around us, cherish our relationships with our loved ones, and extend kindness to those in need.

Source: guardian.ng