How the Civil War Created Thanksgiving
The story of Thanksgiving’s creation is deeply intertwined with the American Civil War. The Civil War, which raged from 1861 to 1865, was a pivotal moment in American history, and it played a significant role in shaping the holiday we celebrate today. This article explores how the Civil War created Thanksgiving and how the holiday has evolved over time.
The origins of Thanksgiving can be traced back to the early 17th century when the Pilgrims and Native Americans shared a harvest feast in what is now Massachusetts. However, the modern Thanksgiving holiday as we know it today has its roots in the Civil War era. The war, which was fought between the Northern states (the Union) and the Southern states (the Confederacy), had a profound impact on the nation’s psyche and unity.
One of the most notable events that contributed to the creation of Thanksgiving during the Civil War was the issuance of a proclamation by President Abraham Lincoln in 1863. On October 3, 1863, Lincoln declared a national day of thanksgiving to be observed on the last Thursday in November. This proclamation was a response to the hardships faced by the nation during the war, including the suffering of soldiers and the economic strain on families.
The purpose of Lincoln’s proclamation was to foster a spirit of national unity and to acknowledge the nation’s gratitude for its blessings amidst the turmoil. He wrote, “In the midst of a civil war of unequalled magnitude and severity, which has sometimes seemed to foreign States to invite and to provoke their intervention, the war has reached its critical stage and there is serious reason to hope that peace may be with us yet in the course of the coming winter.” By calling for a day of thanksgiving, Lincoln aimed to bring the country together and to remind Americans of the importance of unity and gratitude.
The proclamation was met with widespread support and marked the beginning of the modern Thanksgiving holiday. The tradition of celebrating Thanksgiving on the last Thursday in November continued for many years, and it became a symbol of national unity and a time to reflect on the nation’s blessings.
Over time, Thanksgiving has evolved into a time for families and friends to gather, share a meal, and express gratitude for their lives. The holiday has also become an occasion to honor the sacrifices made by those who have served in the military and to recognize the importance of community and togetherness.
In conclusion, the Civil War played a significant role in the creation of Thanksgiving. The hardships and challenges faced during the war led to the establishment of a national day of thanksgiving, which has since become a cherished tradition in the United States. Today, Thanksgiving serves as a reminder of the nation’s resilience and the importance of coming together to celebrate our blessings and to express gratitude for the lives we share.
