Today, November 27, 2025, Americans all over the continent sit on turkey tables, pumpkin pie and cranberry sauce. Thanksgiving, known as Thanksgiving, is not only a culinary feast, but a symbol of gratitude, family and reflection on history. In this article, we will plunge into the roots of this holiday, discover its evolution, and understand why it is one of the most important days of the year for millions of Americans.
Christmas Roots: From 1621 to National Tradition
Imagine: Fall 1621, Plymouth, today's Massachusetts state. A group of English settlers, known as Pilgrims, survived the first severe winter in the New World thanks to the help of the local Wampanoag tribe.After successful corn harvesting, Governor William Bradford organized a three-day feast to which he invited Native Americans, including Chief Massasoita. It was not a formal "thankful" ceremony, but a spontaneous celebration of abundance – with venison, fish and forest fruits on the table.
This story became the founding myth of Thanksgiving, symbolizing peace and cooperation between cultures – although reality was more complex, with conflicts that came later.
For centuries, thanksgiving days were celebrated regionally, often after military victories or successful harvests. The first national day of thanksgiving was proclaimed by President George Washington in 1789, thanking the US Constitution. However, it was Abraham Lincoln in 1863, in the middle of the Civil War, that made Thanksgiving official national holiday, celebrated last Thursday November – to unite a divided nation and promote healing. In 1941, President Franklin D. Roosevelt moved the date to Thursday 4 to extend the Christmas shopping season and help the economy after the Great Depression. Since then, Thanksgiving has become an integral part of the American calendar.
What Thanksgiving Means For Americans? More than just turkey!
For many Americans, Thanksgiving is a Thanksgiving – a moment to stop and thank you for what is good in life. In the era of rapid pace, pandemics and political divisions, this day reminds of simple joys: family, friends, and abundance. As tradition says, it is the "new birth of freedom" – an opportunity to reflect on the history of the US as a country of opportunity.
But let's look deeper:
- Family Meetings: Millions travel to be with loved ones. It's time to cook together, laugh and share stories. In 2025, after years of virtual meetings, these real meetings become even more important.
- Culinary Traditions: The central point is turkey – a symbol of abundance from 1621. Plus mashed potato, stuffing, pumpkin pie and cranberry sauce.It is estimated that every year Americans eat over 45 million turkeys!
- Parades and Entertainment: The Macy’s iconic parade in New York City, with huge balloons and star performances, attracts millions of viewers. It is a holiday of joy, broadcast live, which begins the holiday season.
Let us not forget American football games – tradition since 1876!
- Reflection on History: For Native Americans, like the Potawatomi or Wampanoag tribes, Thanksgiving is also a reminder of colonization and loss. Many celebrate them as the Day of National Grief, emphasizing the need for historical truth.
Today, Thanksgiving symbolizes immunity. After challenges like COVID-19 or climate change, Americans use this day to celebrate "rebirth" – personal and national. It's not just history, it's a living tradition that connects generations.
