When was Thanksgiving officially made a holiday? This question often piques the curiosity of many, especially those interested in American history and cultural traditions. Thanksgiving, a day of gratitude and celebration, has a rich history that dates back to the early 17th century. However, it was not until 1863 that it was officially recognized as a national holiday in the United States.
The origins of Thanksgiving can be traced back to the early 17th century when the Pilgrims, a group of English settlers, arrived in what is now the United States. In 1621, they held a harvest feast with the Wampanoag Native Americans to express gratitude for the bountiful harvest they had received. This feast is often considered the first Thanksgiving celebration.
However, it was not until 1863 that Thanksgiving was officially made a national holiday. President Abraham Lincoln issued a proclamation on October 3, 1863, declaring Thanksgiving to be observed on the final Thursday of November. This decision was made in the midst of the Civil War, with the intention of bringing the country together in a spirit of unity and gratitude.
The tradition of celebrating Thanksgiving continued to evolve over the years. In 1939, President Franklin D. Roosevelt moved the holiday to the third Thursday of November, in an attempt to boost the economy during the Great Depression. However, this decision was met with considerable opposition, as many Americans preferred to keep the holiday on the final Thursday of November.
In 1941, Congress passed a law establishing Thanksgiving as the fourth Thursday in November, which is the date it is celebrated today. This date has remained unchanged, and Thanksgiving continues to be a time for families and friends to gather, share a feast, and express gratitude for their blessings.
In conclusion, Thanksgiving was officially made a holiday in the United States in 1863, following the proclamation by President Abraham Lincoln. This day of gratitude and celebration has deep roots in American history and continues to be an important tradition for millions of people across the nation.
