Thanksgiving Day becomes a national holiday

Historical Significance and Background

In 1863, during the American Civil War, President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed the last Thursday of November as a national Thanksgiving Day. The main driving force behind this proclamation was the efforts of Sarah Josepha Hale, a renowned editor and writer. Hale had made it her life's work to establish this holiday.

Development of the Event

Sarah Josepha Hale's Efforts

Sarah Josepha Hale was a writer who became famous for her poem "Mary Had a Little Lamb" in 1827. Hale was also the editor of a popular magazine called Godey's Lady's Book. Starting from the 1820s, Hale campaigned for Thanksgiving to be celebrated as a national holiday. Through years of writing letters and articles, she tried to convince the public and politicians that Thanksgiving should be a national holiday.

Abraham Lincoln's Proclamation

During the time of the Civil War, there was a need for messages of unity and strengthening social bonds. As a result of Hale's efforts, President Abraham Lincoln issued a proclamation on October 3, 1863. This proclamation declared that Thanksgiving would be celebrated on the last Thursday of November as a national Thanksgiving Day.

Consequences and Effects

The national proclamation of Thanksgiving as a holiday brought about many short-term and long-term consequences. In the short term, it helped alleviate tensions during the Civil War by fostering a sense of unity and solidarity among the American people. Additionally, Thanksgiving's acceptance as a national holiday became an important part of American culture and evolved into a celebrated tradition among the public.

In the long term, the national celebration of Thanksgiving led to social and political changes. This holiday became a symbol in American culture that emphasized family unity and gratitude. Furthermore, the celebration of Thanksgiving contributed to the development of intertribal relations in American history and improved relations with Native Americans.

Historical Significance and Contemporary Reflections

The national proclamation of Thanksgiving holds great importance both historically and in the present day. This holiday reinforces a sense of unity and solidarity in American culture and encourages families to come together. Thanksgiving also serves as a reminder for people to express gratitude and acknowledge their blessings.

Thanksgiving also helps increase awareness of social responsibility in American society. Many individuals participate in volunteer work or make donations to help those in need during this holiday. Additionally, Thanksgiving provides an opportunity to understand American history and values, serving as an important lesson that should be passed on to future generations.