FACT CHECK: What's the Real Story Behind Thanksgiving — and Are We 'Rewriting History?'
Nov 26, 2024
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William Federer, a renowned historian and author with expertise in American history, dives into the true story behind Thanksgiving and the Pilgrims. He reveals how history is often rewritten to suit modern agendas and clarifies common myths about the Pilgrims' quest for religious freedom. Federer recounts their challenging journey and the creation of a self-governing agreement, emphasizing the importance of preserving authentic history. He also touches on the significance of respecting the unique liberties America offers, especially during this season of gratitude.
Historian William J. Federer discusses how current ideologies reinterpret the Pilgrims' history to emotionally detach people from their heritage.
The collaboration between the Pilgrims and Squanto during their first Thanksgiving highlights a pivotal moment of mutual support and peace in early America.
Deep dives
Myths Surrounding the Pilgrims
Many misconceptions exist about the pilgrims and their reasons for coming to America, primarily driven by a desire to erase historical narratives. These myths often stem from a broader tactic of deconstruction, which seeks to emotionally detach people from their cultural heritage by portraying the founders negatively. The portrayal of early American history as solely exploitative disregards the foundational values of individual liberty and opportunity that these founders fought for. This effort to repaint founders as villains aligns with historic practices where regimes have sought to rewrite histories to promote new ideologies.
The Pilgrims' Journey for Freedom
The story of the pilgrims is rooted in their flight from religious persecution in England, where they faced severe oppression for their beliefs. Many were separatists who broke away from the Anglican Church, holding clandestine meetings to practice their faith. Their harrowing journey took them from England to the Netherlands, showcasing their determination for religious liberty in the face of significant adversity. Ultimately, the pilgrims chose to journey to Virginia, despite the dangers involved, signifying their relentless pursuit of freedom and self-governance.
Squanto and the First Thanksgiving
The relationship between the pilgrims and the Native Americans, particularly with Squanto, was pivotal for the survival of the settlers and the establishment of Thanksgiving. After suffering harsh winters and a significant loss of life, Squanto appeared as a vital interpreter and guide, using his knowledge to teach the pilgrims essential agricultural techniques. Their first Thanksgiving was a collaborative celebration, highlighting a moment of peace and the mutual benefits of their alliance. This historical event underscores the complex interactions that shaped early American history and the pilgrims' enduring spirit of gratitude.
If there’s one thing historian William J. Federer can depend on, it’s the way that each successive regime in power wants to destroy the past and rewrite history “to make the good people into bad people so that students will emotionally detach from them.”
He shares how American culture has changed the history of Thanksgiving and the Pilgrims to fit a modern agenda on this week’s The Washington Times’ Higher Ground with Billy Hallowell.