Thanksgiving: A Historical and Cultural Journey

In the US, Thanksgiving is a holiday rich in custom, heritage, and cultural significance. It is observed annually on the fourth Thursday of November and is a time for reflection, family, and thankfulness. Thanksgiving began in the early 17th century when European settlers began to arrive on North American shores. The historical details and occasions that influenced Thanksgiving will be examined in this essay, along with how Americans currently observe the holiday.

The Origins of Thanksgiving

The Pilgrims, a group of English Puritans who fought for religious freedom, are the first characters in the Thanksgiving story. These Pilgrims embarked on a grueling 66-day voyage across the Atlantic Ocean in September 1620 aboard the Mayflower. In November of the same year, they touched down at Plymouth Rock in modern-day Massachusetts. Many of them perished from illness and the cold during their first harsh and merciless winter in the New World.

The Wampanoag tribe, a Native American group headed by Chief Massasoit, allied with the Pilgrims in the spring of 1621. The Pilgrims learned important survival skills from the Wampanoag, such as harvesting fish, growing corn, and extracting maple tree sap. The pilgrims’ survival depended heavily on these lessons.

The First Thanksgiving

The Pilgrims celebrated and gave thanks for their first successful harvest in the fall of 1621. The Pilgrims invited their Native American allies to join them for a three-day feast as a token of appreciation. Many people refer to this occasion as the “First Thanksgiving.” A plentiful feast of venison, poultry, fish, and other harvested crops was part of the festivities. The precise menu is still unknown, but it was an important time of appreciation and solidarity.

Evolution of the Holiday

Over the centuries, the idea of Thanksgiving changed. It was observed irregularly and on various dates depending on the area for a long time. President Abraham Lincoln did not declare a national Thanksgiving Day to be observed on the final Thursday in November until 1863, during the Civil War. Lincoln’s proclamation sought to promote thankfulness and unity amid the country’s unrest.

In 1941, President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed a bill into law, officially establishing Thanksgiving as the fourth Thursday in November. This date remains the standard for Thanksgiving celebrations in the United States today.

Modern Celebrations

Thanksgiving has grown into a major holiday in American culture, characterized by a blend of historical traditions and contemporary customs. Families and friends gather to share a festive meal, often featuring roasted turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie. Each dish carries its own cultural and regional significance, passed down through generations.

Parades and Sports

One of the most iconic Thanksgiving traditions is the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City. First held in 1924, this parade features giant balloons, elaborate floats, marching bands, and performances by celebrities. The parade attracts millions of spectators, both in person and via television broadcasts, making it a quintessential part of the holiday.

Another staple of Thanksgiving is football. The National Football League (NFL) hosts several games on Thanksgiving Day, a tradition that dates back to 1934. Football games serve as a focal point for many families, who gather to watch their favorite teams compete while enjoying the holiday feast.

Thanksgiving is a celebration deeply rooted in tradition, and food plays a central role in the festivities. The main traditional foods served during Thanksgiving have rich historical and cultural significance. Here are some of the key dishes and why they are an essential part of the holiday:

1. Turkey 

Why: The turkey is the centerpiece of the Thanksgiving meal. This tradition dates back to the early feasts, and the bird itself has become a symbol of the holiday. Turkeys are native to North America, making them a fitting choice for a celebration of the New World harvest.

2. Stuffing (or Dressing)

Why: Stuffing is typically made from bread, herbs, and vegetables and is either cooked inside the turkey or separately as a side dish. The practice of stuffing dates back to ancient times, but it became a staple in the American Thanksgiving meal as a way to enhance the flavor of the turkey and make use of all parts of the bird.

3. Mashed Potatoes

Why: Mashed potatoes are a comforting and hearty side dish that pairs well with turkey and gravy. Potatoes became widely available and popular in America in the 18th and 19th centuries, cementing their place in the Thanksgiving feast.

4. Cranberry Sauce

Why: Cranberries are native to North America and were used by Native Americans for their nutritional and medicinal properties. Cranberry sauce adds a tart contrast to the savory dishes on the table, and its bright color is a festive addition.

5. Gravy

Why: Gravy, made from the drippings of the turkey, adds flavor and moisture to the meal. It’s a versatile sauce that ties all the components of the Thanksgiving plate together.

6. Sweet Potatoes (or Yams)

Why: Sweet potatoes, often served baked or mashed, sometimes with a topping of marshmallows or pecans, are a nod to the autumn harvest. They add a sweet and nutritious element to the meal.

7. Green Bean Casserole

Why: This dish, made with green beans, cream of mushroom soup, and topped with fried onions, became popular in the mid-20th century. It reflects the use of convenience foods and the evolution of Thanksgiving menus.

8. Pumpkin Pie

Why: Pumpkin pie is a classic Thanksgiving dessert, showcasing the autumn harvest of pumpkins. Its origins can be traced back to early American settlers who made pies from the native squash. The spices used in pumpkin pie evoke the flavors of the season.

9. Cornbread

Why: Cornbread has its roots in Native American cuisine and was a staple for early settlers. It’s a hearty and flavorful addition to the meal, often served as a side or used in stuffing.

These traditional foods not only reflect the agricultural bounty of America but also the melding of Native American and European culinary practices. Each dish carries historical significance and contributes to the rich tapestry of Thanksgiving celebrations across the United States. The variety of foods and the shared meal embody the themes of gratitude, community, and the harvest season.

Giving Thanks and Giving Back

While the holiday centers on food and festivities, it also emphasizes gratitude and charity. Many families take time to reflect on their blessings and express gratitude for their loved ones, health, and prosperity. This spirit of thankfulness is often extended to acts of kindness and charity. Community organizations, churches, and shelters host Thanksgiving meals for those in need, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to enjoy a warm meal.

Cultural Significance

Thanksgiving holds deep cultural significance for Americans. It is a time when family members, often scattered across the country, come together to celebrate. The holiday fosters a sense of togetherness and reinforces the importance of family bonds. For many, it serves as a reminder of their heritage and the shared history that unites them.