Have you ever wondered why we celebrate Thanksgiving? Thanksgiving is a national holiday celebrated annually in the United States and Canada. It is a day of remembrance for the history that went down in 1621. A traditional Thanksgiving meal consists of turkey, mashed potatoes and gravy, stuffing, pumpkin pie, and more! 

Thanksgiving started when it was first celebrated over a three day harvest festival in 1621. The holiday of Thanksgiving is modeled after the pilgrims and the tribe of the Wampanoag all gathered for a successful and “peaceful” three day harvest. Taught in elementary schools, it is known that the pilgrims helped the Natives to a civilized state and the Natives helped the pilgrims to crop and harvest plants and food. One of the Wampanoag leaders by the name of Massasoit, negotiated a treaty between the pilgrims in 1620. The treaty included an agreement between them that neither group would cause violence. Many people disregard the history behind Thanksgiving and usually take this day to give thanks.

Thanksgiving is a day for families to gather round and express their gratitude for everything they have and are grateful for. President George Washington wanted to have a day for “public thanksgiving and prayer” on Thursday, November 26, 1789. In 1863, the US President Abraham Lincoln wanted the last Thursday of every November to be the holiday of Thanksgiving.

Thanksgiving is celebrated annually in the United States. During this day Americans like to convey their gratitude and show that they are appreciative to their friends and loved ones. It is traditional to share a meal with family and friends and spend the day together.