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Thanksgiving a time for family |
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Written by Amanda Moreno
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Monday, 23 November 2009 |
Turkey, Family and Thanksgiving.
The time of year that brings the family together, whether it be around the telvision for a football game or the Thanksgiving Day parade and then the dinner table.
Giving thanks has always been a way for the early settlers to show their appreciation for bountiful crops and arrival on new territories. The common story involves the first Thanksgiving at Plymouth, with the pilgrims and indians feasting together. The one story that, as a child, everyone is taught. It shows not only how to be thankful, but enforces the importance of coming together and putting aside differences.
Origins of a holiday can be traced and analyzed, but on a holiday such as Thanksgiving, the importance is to remember to stop and take the time to show our appreciation.
George Washington was the first to sign a proclamation declaring a public Thanksgiving. During his first term as President, he proclaimed Nov. 26, to be A Day of Public Thanksgiving and Prayer, according to the Early America Web site. There is also the celebration in 1671, at Charlestown, which serves as the first recorded Thanksgiving observance.
Since 1863, Thanksgiving has been celebrated on the fourth Thursday in November, according to Wikipedia. 1941 marked the first year of Thanksgiving being a federal holiday. At one time, Thanksgiving was associated with a religious holiday, but is know only celebrated as a way to give thanks.
Another tradition that has carried over since 1947 is the pardoning of the Thanksgiving Turkey. The National Turkey Federation presents the President of the United States, with the turkeys; one live and two dressed turkeys. The President gives the live turkey a pardon. This tradition has sketchy origins, but the earliest record is 1989. Some believe that Abraham Lincoln started the tradition when he pardoned his son's pet turkey.
Thanksgiving is a holiday that has been recognized by the government and serves as a way of bring the family together. |
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Last Updated ( Monday, 30 November 2009 )
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