Which president proclaimed Thanksgiving a national holiday? This question has intrigued many history enthusiasts and Americans alike. The answer to this question not only highlights the significance of Thanksgiving in American culture but also sheds light on the role of the president in shaping national holidays.
The history of Thanksgiving dates back to the early 17th century when the Pilgrims, a group of English settlers, celebrated a harvest festival with the Native Americans in what is now Massachusetts. Over the years, Thanksgiving became a symbol of gratitude, family, and community. However, it was not until the 19th century that the idea of making it a national holiday gained traction.
Abraham Lincoln, the 16th president of the United States, is often credited with proclaiming Thanksgiving a national holiday. In 1863, amidst the Civil War, Lincoln issued a proclamation declaring Thanksgiving to be observed on the last Thursday in November. This decision was influenced by the efforts of Sarah Josepha Hale, a writer and magazine editor who had been advocating for a national Thanksgiving holiday for decades.
Lincoln’s proclamation was a significant step in uniting the nation during a time of great turmoil. It served as a reminder of the importance of unity, gratitude, and the nation’s shared values. Since then, Thanksgiving has been celebrated as a national holiday every year, with the exception of a few years when the date was changed by other presidents.
While Lincoln is often credited with the proclamation, it is important to note that other presidents have also played a role in shaping the celebration of Thanksgiving. For instance, Franklin D. Roosevelt, the 32nd president, moved the holiday to the third Thursday in November in an attempt to lengthen the Christmas shopping season. However, this decision was met with widespread criticism and was later reversed by Harry S. Truman, the 33rd president, who returned the holiday to its traditional date.
In conclusion, the question of which president proclaimed Thanksgiving a national holiday highlights the importance of this holiday in American culture. Abraham Lincoln’s proclamation in 1863 was a pivotal moment in the history of Thanksgiving, but it is also essential to recognize the contributions of other presidents who have shaped the celebration of this cherished national holiday.
