This Day Franksgiving: When FDR Moved Thanksgiving w/ Adam Conover [Archive Episode]
Nov 28, 2024
In this discussion with Adam Conover, creator of "Adam Ruins Everything," listeners explore FDR's controversial decision to move Thanksgiving in 1939. Conover shares insights on how this political maneuver aimed to boost holiday shopping amid economic woes faced by many Americans. The conversation touches on the evolving nature of Thanksgiving traditions, the commercialization of the holiday, and how historical political decisions have lasting impacts. They also draw parallels to today's polarization, showing that the complexities of Thanksgiving remain relevant.
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Thanksgiving's Political Nature
- Everything in human society is inherently political, including holidays.
- The myth of Thanksgiving's harmonious origin is a political construct to legitimize colonization.
FDR's Franksgiving
- In 1939, FDR moved Thanksgiving to boost the economy during the Depression.
- Retailers worried a late Thanksgiving would hurt Christmas shopping, influencing FDR's decision.
Christmas Creep
- Concerns about Christmas commercialization existed as early as 1941.
- History often repeats itself; many issues we face are not entirely new.