Thanksgiving, Then, and Now:
It's difficult to pinpoint exactly how Thanksgiving evolved from its humble beginnings to the commercialized holiday we know today. At the heart of the issue is a question of what Thanksgiving is and what it has become.
Many believe that Thanksgiving has lost its meaning over the years, and that it has become a day of overeating and watching football. In some parts of the country, children have to make a choice between attending a Thanksgiving dinner at school or at home. This phenomenon is not just limited to the United States. Other cultures celebrate the harvest season with their own version of Thanksgiving.
According to a survey conducted in 2019, 53% of Americans attend church on Thanksgiving, while 72% of Americans say they have attended a Thanksgiving dinner at some point in their lives. This indicates that there are still people who value the tradition and its spiritual significance.
In an interview with NPR, Sandra Gilbert, a professor of American culture at Michigan State University, stated, "Thanksgiving is not just a holiday, it's a cultural phenomenon. It's a way of reminding people of what they have, and what they have to be thankful for."
As the commercialization of Thanksgiving continues, it's essential to remember the true meaning and purpose of the holiday. To preserve the essence of Thanksgiving, it's crucial to strike a balance between the commercial and spiritual aspects of the celebration.
A Brief History of Thanksgiving
- 1621: The first Thanksgiving takes place in Plymouth, Massachusetts, where the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag Native American tribe come together to celebrate the harvest season.
- 1863: The first national Thanksgiving is declared by President Abraham Lincoln, who invites Americans to come together on the last Thursday of November to express gratitude.
- 1939: President Franklin D. Roosevelt moves Thanksgiving to the third Thursday of November, citing economic benefits for retailers. However, this decision is met with opposition from some who believe it is an attempt to boost consumer spending.
“Thanksgiving is not just a holiday; it's a cultural phenomenon. It's a way of reminding people of what they have, and what they have to be thankful for.”
Author's Review:
Thanksgiving has evolved over the years, and its significance has been lost in the commercialization. It is essential to preserve the true meaning and purpose of the holiday.
В современном понимании День Благодарения – это время, когда люди собираются вместе с семьями и друзьями, чтобы подчеркнуть свою приверженность традициям и ценностям, которые делают американскую культуру так уникальной.
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