Letters from an American November 26, 2025
30 snips
Nov 27, 2025 This discussion dives into the deeper historical significance of Thanksgiving. It uncovers the forgotten truths about the 1621 Plymouth celebration, highlighting how settler violence buried its legacy. The revival of this narrative in 1841 and Sarah Josepha Hale's efforts to establish a national holiday are intriguing facets. The Civil War shifts Thanksgiving's meaning into a symbol of national unity, culminating in Lincoln's transformative proclamations celebrating both victory and emancipation. The journey from a simple harvest feast to a national holiday is vividly explored.
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Plymouth Harvest Inspires A National Holiday
- A recovered 1841 book of Plymouth diaries revived the 1621 harvest celebration story.
- Sarah Josepha Hale used that story to push for a national day to soothe North–South tensions.
Thanksgiving's Meaning Shifted With War
- The meaning of Thanksgiving shifted dramatically after the Civil War began at Fort Sumter.
- Governors declared state thanksgivings to sustain morale and commitment to the Union cause.
Proclamations Linked Sacrifice To National Unity
- State proclamations framed sacrifice as hallowing love for the Union and its institutions.
- Lincoln used a national proclamation to bind gratitude to continued resistance and unity.
