The History of Thanksgiving and Presidential Proclamations

In-Depth Analysis

### The First Thanksgiving and Early Proclamations

The first "Day of Public Thanksgiving" was observed on November 26, 1789. For many years afterward, the date of Thanksgiving varied as each president set it annually. President Abraham Lincoln sought to bring order by declaring it would fall on the last Thursday of November in 1863.

### FDR's Date Change and the Resulting Split

In 1939, President Franklin D. Roosevelt, concerned that a late Thanksgiving would shorten the Christmas shopping season and harm economic recovery, moved the holiday to the second to last Thursday in November. This decision divided the nation, with thirty-two states agreeing to the change and sixteen refusing. The controversy led to Congress intervening.

### The Congressional Decision of 1941

In 1941, Congress officially set Thanksgiving on the fourth Thursday in November to avoid the holiday falling on the last day of the month when November has five Thursdays. This decision sought to end the confusion and division caused by FDR’s earlier change.

### Thanksgiving in Modern Times

Today, Thanksgiving maintains its significance as a time for gratitude and family. While the Christmas shopping season has expanded and Black Friday has become a major retail event, the core values of Thanksgiving remain centered on relationships and thankfulness.

### Thanksgiving and Retail

Retailers have adapted to the changing landscape of holiday shopping. With consumers starting their shopping earlier each year, the number of days between Thanksgiving and Christmas is less critical than it once was. The holiday season now accounts for about 20 percent of annual sales, with hobby, toy, and game stores seeing a higher share at about 30 percent.

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FAQ

Why did FDR try to change the date of Thanksgiving?

To extend the Christmas shopping season and boost economic recovery during the Great Depression.

What was the result of FDR's decision?

It divided the nation, with some states celebrating on the new date and others on the traditional date.

When did Congress officially set the date for Thanksgiving?

In 1941, Congress declared the fourth Thursday of November as the official date for Thanksgiving.

How has Thanksgiving changed over time?

It has evolved from a holiday with varying dates to a fixed date, and from a purely religious observance to one intertwined with commercial activities.

Takeaways

Thanksgiving's date was not always fixed; it was subject to presidential proclamations.
FDR's attempt to move Thanksgiving caused significant public and political division.
The standardization of Thanksgiving in 1941 brought stability to holiday scheduling.
Today, Thanksgiving is a blend of gratitude, family, and the kickoff to the holiday shopping season.

Discussion

Do you think the fixed date of Thanksgiving is essential, or should it be flexible? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Share this article with others who need to stay ahead of this trend!

Sources

UNDER THE STETSON: Good Stuff The almost-forgotten Thanksgiving: a weird history of Thanksgiving proclamations There were two Thanksgivings in 1939. What Erie, the nation thought of FDR's move

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