Thanksgiving is more than just a day of feasting; it’s a tradition steeped in history, shaped by centuries of cultural and societal changes. While the iconic image of Pilgrims and Native Americans sharing a harvest meal often comes to mind, the story of Thanksgiving is far richer and more complex. From its humble beginnings in the 17th century to the bustling celebrations of today, the journey of Thanksgiving reveals much about gratitude, resilience, and community.

How Did Thanksgiving Begin?

Thanksgiving traces its roots to 1621, when the Pilgrims at Plymouth Colony shared a harvest feast with the Wampanoag people. After a difficult first winter in which many Pilgrims perished, their successful harvest was a cause for celebration. The Wampanoag, who had provided critical assistance in teaching the settlers to farm and hunt in their new environment, joined them in the festivities. This event, often considered the “First Thanksgiving,” was not a formal holiday but rather a communal gathering to give thanks.

Historical accounts describe the meal as a simple affair, featuring wild game like venison and fowl, along with local produce such as squash, beans, and corn. It was a far cry from the elaborate turkey dinners we associate with Thanksgiving today. This gathering was not repeated annually, and it wasn’t until much later that the concept of Thanksgiving began to take shape as a regular observance.

Over the following years, sporadic days of thanksgiving were declared in various colonies, often tied to religious practices or moments of gratitude for specific blessings, such as surviving harsh winters or military victories. These early thanksgivings were more about reflection and prayer than feasting, laying the groundwork for the Thanksgiving we know today.

How Did Thanksgiving Become a National Holiday?

Thanksgiving gained national recognition thanks to the tireless efforts of one woman: Sarah Josepha Hale. Known as the “Mother of Thanksgiving,” Hale was a writer and editor who campaigned for nearly two decades to establish Thanksgiving as a national holiday. Through her editorials and letters to U.S. presidents, she argued that a unified day of thanks would strengthen the nation’s identity, especially during turbulent times.

Her advocacy finally paid off in 1863, when President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed Thanksgiving a national holiday. In the midst of the Civil War, Lincoln declared the last Thursday of November a day for Americans to come together in gratitude and unity. His proclamation highlighted the importance of giving thanks even during hardship, setting a precedent for Thanksgiving as a time of reflection and national togetherness.

Following Lincoln’s declaration, Thanksgiving was celebrated annually, but the date varied slightly from year to year. It wasn’t until 1941 that President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed a bill officially establishing Thanksgiving as the fourth Thursday in November. This move solidified the holiday on the calendar and aligned it with the beginning of the holiday shopping season, adding an economic element to its cultural significance.

How Has Thanksgiving Evolved Over Time?

While Thanksgiving has always been about gratitude, its traditions and meaning have evolved significantly. The early feasts of the Pilgrims were about survival and community, but modern Thanksgiving is often associated with family gatherings, indulgent meals, and vibrant parades.

The Thanksgiving meal, with its turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie, became standardized in the 19th and 20th centuries, largely influenced by popular culture and cookbooks. Turkeys, in particular, became the centerpiece of the meal, likely due to their abundance and suitability for feeding large groups. Over time, Thanksgiving dinners have also adapted to reflect the diversity of American culture, incorporating dishes from different culinary traditions.

Another hallmark of modern Thanksgiving is the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, an annual spectacle that began in 1924. Featuring massive balloons, elaborate floats, and marching bands, the parade is a highlight for millions, both in person and on television. It represents the holiday’s shift from a private, reflective occasion to a public celebration filled with entertainment and shared experiences.

Football has also become synonymous with Thanksgiving. The tradition of Thanksgiving Day football games dates back to the late 19th century and continues to be a centerpiece of the holiday for many families. Whether gathered around the table or the television, Thanksgiving emphasizes connection and shared traditions.

In recent years, the holiday has also taken on new meanings. For many Native Americans, Thanksgiving serves as a time to reflect on the complex and often painful history of colonization. Some observe the day as a National Day of Mourning, honoring their ancestors and raising awareness about historical injustices. This perspective adds depth to the holiday, encouraging reflection on both gratitude and accountability.

From its origins as a modest harvest celebration to its modern role as a cornerstone of American culture, Thanksgiving has undergone a remarkable transformation. What began as a simple meal of thanks has grown into a multifaceted holiday, bringing people together to reflect, celebrate, and give back. Whether it’s through sharing a meal, watching a parade, or acknowledging history, Thanksgiving continues to evolve, proving that gratitude remains at its heart.