When was Thanksgiving an official holiday? This question often piques the curiosity of many, especially those interested in American history and the origins of this beloved national celebration. Thanksgiving, a day dedicated to giving thanks for the blessings of the past year, has a rich history that dates back to the early 17th century.
The first Thanksgiving celebration is widely believed to have taken place in 1621, when the Pilgrims of the Plymouth Colony in what is now Massachusetts shared a feast with the Wampanoag Native Americans. This event was a way to express gratitude for the harvest and to celebrate the successful first year of the colony. However, this gathering was not an official holiday at the time.
The idea of making Thanksgiving a national holiday began to gain traction in the 19th century. Sarah Josepha Hale, a popular writer and editor, was a strong advocate for the holiday. She published a series of articles and letters in her newspaper, Godey’s Lady’s Book, calling for the establishment of a national day of thanksgiving. Hale believed that such a day would bring the nation together and promote a spirit of unity and gratitude.
In 1863, during the Civil War, President Abraham Lincoln declared Thanksgiving a national holiday. On October 3, 1863, he issued a proclamation that established the last Thursday in November as the day of Thanksgiving. This decision was meant to unite the nation during a time of great division and to honor the sacrifices made by soldiers on both sides of the conflict.
Since then, Thanksgiving has been celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November each year. It has become a time for families and friends to gather, share a feast, and express gratitude for their blessings. The holiday has also become a symbol of the nation’s unity and the importance of appreciating the good in life.
In conclusion, Thanksgiving was first celebrated in 1621 by the Pilgrims, but it was not until 1863 that it became an official national holiday under President Abraham Lincoln. This day of giving thanks has since become a cherished tradition in the United States, reminding us to be grateful for the many blessings we have in our lives.
