Richard Pickering

Richard Pickering, Deputy Director at Plimoth Patuxet Museums and a historian on early New England relations, dives into the 1621 harvest feast that marked the first Thanksgiving. He reveals the dire conditions faced by the pilgrims, their dependence on the Wampanoag's agricultural knowledge, and how this feast fostered crucial diplomatic ties. Also discussed are the motivations behind the pilgrims' journey, the Mayflower Compact's significance, and the evolution of Thanksgiving into a national holiday, intertwining history with cultural legacy.

In this enlightening discussion, Richard Pickering, Deputy Director and Senior Historian at Plimoth Plantation, uncovers the rich history behind Thanksgiving. He shares the authentic story of the 1621 harvest feast, highlighting themes of gratitude and coexistence between the English settlers and the Wampanoag people. Listeners learn about the fragile alliances that developed, the cultural misunderstandings present, and how early cooperation transformed into conflict over time. Pickering also debunks common myths, emphasizing the importance of respecting oral traditions.