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.
22:45
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Quick takeaways
- FDR's decision to move Thanksgiving aimed to boost the wartime economy, leading to substantial public backlash and political division.
- The evolving narrative of Thanksgiving calls for a more accurate representation of history, emphasizing gratitude and community over simplified myths.
Deep dives
Franksgiving and FDR's Bold Move
In 1939, Franklin Delano Roosevelt's decision to move Thanksgiving up a week to help boost the wartime economy sparked widespread controversy. This change aimed to extend the holiday shopping season, as retailers feared that a late Thanksgiving would leave them little time before Christmas sales. However, this re-scheduling disrupted long-established holiday plans and college football schedules, leading to significant backlash from both the public and institutions. Ultimately, Roosevelt's move persisted until 1941, when Congress officially reinstated Thanksgiving to the fourth Thursday of November.
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