When did Thanksgiving become a national holiday in the US? This question is often asked by those curious about the history and significance of this beloved American tradition. Thanksgiving, a day set aside to give thanks for the harvest and blessings of the past year, has its roots in the early 17th century but was not officially recognized as a national holiday until much later.
The origins of Thanksgiving can be traced back to the Pilgrims who arrived in America in 1620. In 1621, they celebrated a harvest feast with the Wampanoag Native Americans, which is often considered the first Thanksgiving. However, it was not until 1863 that Thanksgiving was declared a national holiday by President Abraham Lincoln.
In this article, we will explore the history of Thanksgiving, the reasons behind its establishment as a national holiday, and its significance in American culture today.
The first official Thanksgiving celebration was held in 1621, when the Pilgrims and Wampanoag Native Americans came together to share a feast. This event was prompted by a successful harvest, and the Pilgrims wanted to express gratitude for their bountiful crops and the help they had received from the Native Americans.
Despite the early celebrations, Thanksgiving was not widely observed across the country. It was not until the early 19th century that the idea of a national Thanksgiving holiday gained traction. In 1817, Massachusetts became the first state to declare Thanksgiving a holiday, and by the 1850s, several other states had followed suit.
The movement to establish a national Thanksgiving holiday gained momentum in the 1860s, particularly during the Civil War. In 1863, President Abraham Lincoln declared Thanksgiving a national holiday to be celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November. This declaration was made in the midst of the war, and Lincoln hoped that the holiday would foster a spirit of unity and thankfulness among the American people.
Since then, Thanksgiving has remained a national holiday, and its celebration has become a time for families to gather, share a feast, and express gratitude for their blessings. The holiday has also become a symbol of American culture and tradition, celebrated by millions around the world.
In conclusion, Thanksgiving became a national holiday in the US in 1863, when President Abraham Lincoln declared it to be celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November. This holiday has deep roots in American history and continues to be a time for families to come together and give thanks for their blessings.
