David Silverman

Sarah Josepha Hale, a 19th-century writer and editor, played a pivotal role in making Thanksgiving a national holiday while advocating for unity during the Civil War. David Silverman, a history professor, provides essential context about the contrasting narratives of Thanksgiving, particularly the implications for Indigenous peoples. They explore Hale's relentless campaign and shed light on what the traditional story leaves out, ultimately questioning the complexities of American identity and the often overlooked histories that shape the holiday.

David Silverman, a historian and author of "This Land Is Their Land," shares crucial insights into the Wampanoag perspective on the arrival of the Mayflower. He discusses the deep-rooted history between the Wampanoag and Europeans long before 1620, revealing the complex dynamics of trade and cultural exchanges. Silverman also clarifies the roles of figures like Squanto and Massasoit, highlighting the fraught nature of early interactions and the myths surrounding Thanksgiving. His reassessment provokes a deeper understanding of Native sovereignty and the brutal realities of colonization.

David Silverman, a historian and author of "This Land Is Their Land," delves into the untold story of Thanksgiving. He discusses the pivotal 1970 protest in Plymouth organized by Wampanoag activist Wamsutta Frank James, highlighting the ongoing National Day of Mourning. Silverman challenges the glorified Thanksgiving narrative, exposing myths versus realities for Native Americans, particularly the Wampanoag. The conversation underscores the need to confront historical injustices and the resilience of Indigenous voices in reclaiming their stories.