American Thanksgiving is a national holiday celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November, marked by a feast that often includes turkey, stuffing, and various side dishes. This holiday has roots in early 17th-century harvest celebrations among Pilgrims and Native Americans, evolving over time into a significant cultural event that emphasizes gratitude, family gatherings, and shared meals.
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Thanksgiving is associated with the harvest season and traditionally includes foods like turkey, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie.
The holiday was officially proclaimed a national holiday by President Abraham Lincoln in 1863 during the Civil War as a way to foster unity.
Many Americans participate in Thanksgiving traditions such as watching parades and football games as part of their celebration.
Thanksgiving is often characterized by the practice of expressing gratitude for blessings and is seen as a time for reflection on family and community.
Black Friday, the day after Thanksgiving, has become known for its shopping sales and marks the unofficial start of the holiday shopping season.
Review Questions
How does American Thanksgiving serve as a ritual that brings people together through food?
American Thanksgiving functions as a ritual by uniting families and friends around a shared meal that celebrates gratitude. The food served, particularly the turkey and various traditional dishes, symbolizes abundance and the gathering of loved ones. This collective dining experience reinforces social bonds and creates a sense of community, making it an essential part of the holiday's significance.
Discuss the evolution of Thanksgiving from its historical roots to its modern-day celebration in American culture.
Thanksgiving has evolved significantly from its origins in the early 1600s when Pilgrims and Native Americans shared a harvest feast. Over the years, it transformed into a national holiday with an emphasis on family, gratitude, and cultural traditions. Modern celebrations often include unique regional dishes and contemporary practices like volunteering for those in need, reflecting a broader understanding of community beyond just familial ties.
Evaluate the impact of commercialization on American Thanksgiving traditions and practices today.
Commercialization has significantly influenced American Thanksgiving by shifting some focus from traditional family gatherings to consumer-driven activities such as shopping. The rise of Black Friday has led to early sales starting on Thanksgiving Day itself, which can detract from family time. While some still uphold the core values of gratitude and togetherness, many feel that commercialization threatens the essence of the holiday by prioritizing consumerism over meaningful connections.
Related terms
Harvest Festival: A celebration that occurs during the fall to give thanks for the crops gathered and often features communal meals.
Pilgrims: Early settlers of New England who are credited with celebrating the first Thanksgiving in 1621 with Native Americans.
Feasting: The act of eating a large meal, often shared among family and friends during celebrations or special occasions.