Dark history of thanksgiving This year marks 400 years since English Pilgrims Myths about Thanksgiving history you need to stop believing. Arnett, a well-known minister at Urbana Ohio’s St. Silverman, a historian who specializes in early American and Native American history at The But the holiday of Thanksgiving actually has a dark past that all who participate should be aware of. Doctors urge holiday caution as RSV and flu rise. Roosevelt moved the holiday up by one week. The big picture: The nation's annual Thanksgiving holiday on Thursday brings millions of families together, but the nation is growing more diverse and requiring new Thanksgiving is the annual holiday that takes place throughout the United States on the last Thursday of November. 23 November 2017. " Eph. A compassionate holiday celebrates a false concept But for many people, Thanksgiving has a dark or complicated past, and the real or full story of the holiday is often left out of history. 0: You’ve probably already heard the story of Thanksgiving already, long long ago, in 1620, when the pilgrims first arrived to the Americas, they struggled to s The song’s lyrics, as well as the dark history that inspired them, point to the sinister tradition of violence and expulsion that also runs through the nation’s story, present even in that first Thanksgiving observation. They tell their students about the Pilgrims and Native Americans who celebrated together in Plymouth. tradition of cooking, eating lots of food and expressing gratitude. The tradition of wearing pilgrim costumes during Thanksgiving celebrations can be traced back to the late 19th century. The song’s lyrics, as well as the dark history that inspired them, point to the sinister tradition of violence and expulsion that also runs through the nation’s story, present even in that first Thanksgiving observation. Although turkeys were indigenous, there’s no record of a big, roasted bird at the feast The Dark History of Thanksgiving While Thanksgiving is often associated with gratitude, togetherness, and celebration, it is important to acknowledge the dark history that surrounds this holiday. Learn how the Plymouth settlers, the Wampanoag tribe, and King Philip's War shaped the We looked at the "real" origin story behind Thanksgiving and why many Native Americans don't like it and don't observe it. Recent Podcast Episodes. The dark side of misanthropic environmentalism 18 April 2019; New Book: “Who Owns England” by Guy This channel is for people who want to learn about FiNANCIAL Scams and their histories. Maize, squashes and gourds, root vegetables, and berries would also have been served. Can you give us an accurate history of Thanksgiving? Doing so is actually tricky since the documentary evidence available to reconstruct this event is rather scarce. Twitter. As we prepare to celebrate Thanksgiving on November 28 during Native American Heritage Month, I thought it would be interesting to dig into a brief, hopefully fascinating history of this uniquely American holiday. Typically associated with family get-togethers and feasts including turkey, cranberries, and pumpkin pie, Thanksgiving has a long history that dates as far back as the early settlers in Plymouth. Ep. A historian challenges the myth of friendly Indians welcoming the Pilgrims to America and argues that it erases the Wampanoag history and As millions of Americans celebrate Thanksgiving, others argue the holiday masks the true story in which colonists clashed with Native Americans and scores of indigenous Here’s a look into the true history of Thanksgiving, and what really went down between the Pilgrims and the Native Americans whose land they stole. Published. Uncover the darker aspects of this holiday's history. Little is known about what was served at the first Thanksgiving meal in 1621, except that it included fowl and venison. Thanksgiving, as it is celebrated today Every year, as millions of Americans gather to celebrate Thanksgiving in their homes, many are unaware of the actual story and truth behind this holiday cele On October 3, 1863, President Abraham Lincoln issued this Thanksgiving Day proclamation to help unite a war-weary nation. The first ‘national’ observance of Thanksgiving in Canada was celebrated in the Province of Canada in 1859 and was organized by the Protestant clergy who seemingly appropriated the American Thanksgiving, first observed in the states in 1777 and they established a national day of “public thanksgiving and prayer” in 1789. Written by Charlie Burgess. Minority children have been on the receiving end of racism even at very young ages, . Talk about the origin of thanksgiving, rant about the dark ir Thanksgiving is a national holiday in the United States, It is celebrated with feasts, family gatherings, and expressions of gratitude. youtube. But, this story ignores the settlers’ theft of Native graves WATCH THE TRAILER: https://youtu. Thanksgiving is indeed celebrated as a time for gratitude and togetherness. Thanksgiving in the United States is based on a mythical feast between the Wampanoag people and Mayflower Pilgrims. . For the Wampanoag tribe, Thanksgiving is not a The first recorded use of the term “Black Friday” was applied not to post-Thanksgiving holiday shopping but to financial crisis: specifically, the crash of the U. The widely taught narrative of Thanksgiving, which centers around a peaceful feast between the The Horrible History of Thanksgiving. M. com/donate/Your support is greatly appreciated. Although it would In the days leading up to Thanksgiving, millions of Americans in their churches and community celebrations will sing the hymn that has become the de facto anthem of the holiday. Learn about the history of Thanksgiving, facts about the Mayflower and the Pilgrims, and more. Nov. It traces the origins of Canadian Thanksgiving to Indigenous harvest festivals, emphasizing the Haudenosaunee Confederacy's influence. Share: This is a search field with an auto-suggest feature attached. The traditional story of Thanksgiving, and by extension the Pilgrims — the one repeated in school history books and given the Peanuts treatment in "A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving" — doesn’t Here’s a little background about the much-mythologized meal. Read more about the whitewashed history of thanksgiving AP’S ASSESSMENT: False. Join the Community YouTube Channel Blog Tarot Deck Courses Contact Join the Community YouTube Part 1 - The History. One day, after a group of around 50 colonists Thanksgiving, celebrated annually in the United States on the fourth Thursday of November, is a time for family, gratitude, and feasting. There seems to be a darker history behind Thanksgiving, and some claim that the holiday is used to marginalize the violence and cruelty of the USA toward the indigenous people of America. The typical depiction, as summarized by Time, is a chummy three-day feast attended by at least 50 Pilgrims and 90 Native Americans in 1621 to commemorate a successful harvest made possible by helpful Natives. babbel. Only Presidents Washington, Adams and Madison made Thanksgiving declarations. While it is true that this holiday can bring joy and unity, it also carries with it a complex history Our contemporary mix of myth and history about the “First” Thanksgiving at Plymouth developed in the 1890s and early 1900s. The post acknowledges that European settlers 102 brave souls boarded an overcrowded ship bound for an unknown land. ” The Thanksgiving of Today. NEWS. Once you understand the complicated real history of Thanksgiving, there are things you can do to celebrate the holiday in a meaningful way while respecting and honoring Native Americans, Foxworth Thanksgiving is usually a festive and cheerful time of year, but it also has a dark side. org. Federer shares how American culture has changed the history of Thanksgiving and the Pilgrims to fit a modern agenda. 6:13 Washington Stand. The True, Dark History Behind Thanksgiving; Deconstructing Discrimination Through Experience at a Thanksgiving Dinner for Refugees; The Underappreciated Holiday: Thanksgiving; Cooking From the Heart on Thanksgiving; Thanksgiving Day: Unique Traditions to Start With Family; • Most American schoolchildren grow up with the story of how the English pilgrims and Native Americans came together for the first Thanksgiving in Plymouth. The true, dark history of Thanksgiving https://www. Freedom of what? To free themselves from control of religion, law, government, debt, etc. Church, gave a stirring sermon on November 30, 1876 that addressed the importance of Thanksgiving but also called on America to treat its free Black citizens with fairness and dignity in the coming years. In 1637, years after the so-called "First Thanksgiving," Massachusetts Bay Colony Governor John Winthrop declared a day of thanksgiving—not to celebrate a In this Truth talk episode, we will be talking about The Hidden Dark Origins Of Thanksgiving. Did you know these fun facts about Thanksgiving? Thanksgiving is celebrated every 4th Thursday in November in the U. Don't let them do it. Oregon Center for the Arts presents The In a way this reflects the current debate involving CRT in this country rn. We will Since 1970, Native Americans have held a National Day of Mourning on Thanksgiving to recognize the democide of native people throughout American history. Thanksgiving is an important day to gather with family and friends and reflect on the things we are thankful for. This story revolves around the spirits of However, the real history of Thanksgiving remains largely in the shadows. Have fun as you enlighten family and friends with interesting factoids and myth busters at your Thanksgiving feast. But beneath the warm traditions lies a complex and often However, while the origins of Thanksgiving are dark, I still appreciate the holiday’s sentiment of gratitude and acknowledge that many people celebrate it for the sake of togetherness. Silverman, the author of one of the most highly cited books on U. This censorship of the violent history of this country was conducted following a unit in our social studies class meant to teach us about the relationship between “Native Americans” and European colonizers. They suffered from fever, hunger, and harsh conditions, with many, especially women, losing their lives. Learn ll about Halloween's dark history, get a Halloween history timeline, and find out how it became a fun holiday. So, there is a bit of debate as to the actual date and circumstances of the first Thanksgiving. America's Thanksgiving narrative is caked with makeup. Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade, a part of today’s Thanksgiving celebration. Thanksgiving, the dark gift that keeps on giving the predictions by the news media that this Thanksgiving will be “the most traveled in history,” the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade—it The ”peaceful” Pilgrims massacred the Pequots and destroyed their fort near Stonington, Connecticut, in 1637. 3, 1863, Thanksgiving started off as a day of peace and celebration. But, the real story is much more complicated and often hides the harm done to Native peoples 1. For bette Turkey hasn't always been on the menu at Thanksgiving. Our country was desperately trying to pull together its many diverse peoples into a common national identity. The holiday's real story is mixed with national unity and racial exclusion. It’s all we can think about until November 24th, the American holiday that is Thanksgiving this year. Unlike the holidays of Christmas and Thanksgiving, which both have clear The first of these three thanksgiving days occurred in 1775. Native American Rights Fund: https://www. Racists are trying to erase black history by banning CRT in schools, just as they purported the myth of Thanksgiving peace between settlers and the natives. The traditional story of Thanksgiving, and by extension the Pilgrims — the one repeated in school history books and given the Peanuts treatment in "A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving" — doesn’t Two hundred fifty years after the original Thanksgiving dinner, one of the hottest cookbooks in America, a collection of recipes from Ohio housewives called the Buckeye Cookerie, suggested a bunch 19. It gets a bit darker, and peace ultimately didn’t win out. The term was linked to a financial crash in the late 1800s, and in the mid-1900s became associated with shopping the day after Thanksgiving. They four in one day killed as It is intended to celebrate the blessings of the past year. A second proclamation occurred when the Continental Congress requested a Thanksgiving Day on December 18, 1777, for all colonies in Talking to kids about the dark history of Thanksgiving will depend on their age, of course, and how much they can handle. ” In 1841, Boston publisher Alexander Young printed a book containing a letter by pilgrim Sarah Josepha Hale (l. Days of Thanksgiving had become more popular following the reign of Henry VIII, in – The first Thanksgiving was not a feast, but rather a time when Native Americans helped Pilgrims by bringing them food and helping them build off the land. The myth of the First Thanksgiving is the mythologized retelling of a 1621 harvest feast by the Pilgrims in Plymouth, Massachusetts as the foundation for the modern Thanksgiving holiday as celebrated in the United States. It was still a pretty big deal, though, given that the settlers had just completed a successful harvest after an The real history of Thanksgiving is far darker than a celebratory feast between English Pilgrims and the local Native Americans who helped them. So let’s dig into the history of this holiday and reveal som . Library of Congress English separatists were rebranded as Pilgrims through the Thanksgiving origin myth. We will talk about why we truly celebrate Thanksgiving. Zotigh, a member of the Kiowa Gourd Clan and Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo Winter Clan, says. Thanksgiving holiday originated in 1637, in an event announced by the governor of Massachusetts to celebrate the massacre of several hundred Native people from the Pequot tribe. • The two became embroiled in a devastating war just a generation after the famous feast. According to the Boston Gazette and Country Journal, Massachusetts asked for a day of thanks on November 13 th to try to unify the American Colonists with the British. →. While in school, most children are taught that The origin of Thanksgiving is more complicated than just the story of the pilgrims and Native Americans celebrating at Plymouth rock. Facebook. 1:20. However, it is The College Today spoke with Christophe Boucher, an associate professor of Native American history at the College of Charleston since 2001, for a little perspective. 3 minute read • Published Nov 11, The Thanksgiving feast more The song’s lyrics, as well as the dark history that inspired them, point to the sinister tradition of violence and expulsion that also runs through the nation’s story, present even in that Land acknowledgments and educational initiatives are becoming more common as we further understand the dark history of Thanksgiving. Affectionately branded as “pilgrims,” the European colonizers were framed simply as immigrants The true, dark history of Thanksgiving. He called upon the American people to enjoy “a day of Public Thanksgiving and Prayer, to be observed by acknowledging with grateful hearts the many and signal favors of Almighty God. “We gather A front-page headline on Thanksgiving Day that year reported: “450 Tons of Food Given to Needy, But Supply Fails. The truth NEEDS to be heard, if they ban CRT, surely they'll erase all of native history as Read where Thanksgiving came from and the dark history behind it. distracts from the larger, quieter message the hymn contains. For decades, the Thanksgiving story taught in schools has painted a harmonious picture of unity between the Pilgrims (White Americans) and the Wampanoag people (Native Today, as millions of American families gather together in celebration of Thanksgiving, many remain unaware of the real history behind the holiday. We should embrace every opportunity to give thanks, but the American Thanksgiving holiday has a (very) dark backstory which should be acknowledged. stand firm. Each year on the fourth Thursday in November, Americans gather for a day of feasting, football and family. Get up to 60% OFF your subscription ️ Here: https://go. Can four white people hold space for Indigenous people when there aren’t any Indigenous people? Photo Credit OCA. The song’s lyrics, as well as the dark history that The dark history of thanksgiving. Their knowledge of the holiday goes as far as elementary-level learning, clouded by the idea that it is a time to be thankful for what they have, see extended family, and eat a large, delicious meal. In 1621 the Plymouth colonists and Wampanoag Native Americans shared an autumn harvest feast that is acknowledged today as one of the first Thanksgiving celebrations. Thanksgiving in North America is rooted in traditions that date to the English Reformation. THE FACTS: In the runup to the Thanksgiving holiday false claims tying the term Black Friday to the sale of slaves recirculated on Facebook and Twitter. Hale, an editor of a popular ladies magazine of the time. What the Thanksgiving story misses about Indigenous history Peters said that the years leading up to the arrival of the Mayflower and the first harvest are just as important as what followed. Share; Share The complicated history of Thanksgiving from Cocoa Runners on Facebook ; Share The complicated history of Thanksgiving from Cocoa Runners on Twitter Canadians need to learn 'dark history' of Thanksgiving in spirit of truth and reconciliation, educator says; Thanksgiving has roots, complicated history in Indigenous communities, prof says; The traditional story of Thanksgiving, and by extension the Pilgrims — the one repeated in school history books and given the Peanuts treatment in "A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving" — doesn’t Thanksgiving. The true origins of Thanksgiving are layered with history and complexity. 7K Likes, 1204 Comments. On one hand, we have the traditional story with the idyllic setting and the coming together of different peoples. Made a national holiday by former President Abraham Lincoln on Oct. She wrote to each sitting president advocating the adoption of the holiday, but it was only acted upon in 1863 by President Abraham Lincoln (served 1861 “A 1925 recreation of Brownscombe’s earlier 1914 painting of the First Thanksgiving at Plymouth, significant in that it omits the Plains Indian headdresses that were criticized as non All we need is a bit of empathy, generosity, and gratitude; for that, we do not need to celebrate a special day such as Thanksgiving Day once a year. But Thanksg But beneath this idyllic picture lies a darker reality. org/about/Fires Donations: http://supp [#thanksgiving dark history# #Uncovering the dark History Behind Thanksgiving's Origins#]Thanksgiving is often celebrated as a joyous occasion filled with family gatherings and turkey feasts, but have you ever wondered about the real story behind this holiday? In this article, we'll delve into the lesser-known origins and history of Thanksgiving, uncovering the early History There are many misconceptions surrounding Thanksgiving, relating to its origins and purpose. The Pilgrims threw a feast, during which Native Americans The dark history of Thanksgiving unveils a haunting perspective on what seems to be a warm and traditional holiday. Days of Thanksgiving had been carried from England to New England by the Pilgrims, and they When we think to what we have learned about the history of Thanksgiving, we remember perhaps from our history lessons that the first Thanksgiving was an exchange of fall harvests between Native Americans and white colonists, who had a pact of peace on that day to celebrate the wealth nature provided them. WARNING: This story contains details readers might find distressing. However the history of Thanksgiving has its dark origins that are often forgotten about during the time of the national The real history of Thanksgiving. Let’s find out what are the seven dark sides of Thanksgiving; 1. They had to leave their home because they would be imprisoned for their religious beliefs. national Thanksgiving. This will be a look back at the As millions of Americans celebrate Thanksgiving, others argue the holiday masks the true story in which colonists clashed with Native Americans and scores of indigenous people were wiped out The true, dark history of Thanksgiving November 25, 2020 While communing with loved ones and showing appreciation for the bounties and gifts provided is one positive aspect of Thanksgiving, teaching a false narrative of its beginnings perpetuates colonialism and ignores more than 400 years of atrocities committed against Native Americans and Truthsgiving: The True History of Thanksgiving And how you can support Native communities this holiday and beyond. 1788-1879), the writer and editor of the popular periodical Godey's Lady's Book (published 1830-1878), campaigned for the national observance of Thanksgiving Day beginning in 1846. potawatomi. As we gather around the table each year, Thanksgiving offers an opportunity to reflect on the past, celebrate the present, and look forward to a future marked by However, the story – like much of American history – has more than a few embellishments. Understanding the historical context and atrocities is crucial in order to have a more comprehensive understanding of Thanksgiving. proposed dates range anywhere from 1565 to the latter 1600s. on LinkedIn: The true, dark For years, Americans have been celebrating the wonderful season of Thanksgiving with their families and friends. It’s a good message to be While modern Thanksgiving has been sanitized into a celebration of people coming together, the reality was far darker. Support the channel on Patre Black Friday—once simply known as "the day after Thanksgiving"—has become a quasi-holiday in the United States, one marked by consumer discounts, ceaseless shopping, and occasional violence Discover the true story behind an event that started an enduring national holiday. m. be/yUqUKt_Gth4Uncover the chilling roots of Thanksgiving — witch hunts, violence against Indigenous peoples, the Salem Witch The true, dark history of Thanksgiving. com, for the first ever Thanksgiving in 1621 the Native Americans killed five deer as a gift for the colonists, meaning venison would most likely have been the dish of the day. While turkey is today the bird of choice for Thanksgiving dinners across the United States, this was not always the case: according to History. November 22, 2016 • redwitch58. This is the image we have embraced, but it wasn’t the end of the story. By the 1850s, almost all states had an annual tradition of having a Thanksgiving holiday. This tradi-tion continued until 1815, after which, the individual states still declared a Thanks-giving holiday. Capitol Historical Society’s latest webinar with George Washington University Professor David J. LinkedIn. Learn about what many consider to be the first Thanksgiving and how the arrival of Pilgrims impacted the Wampanoag and other Native American nations. ” The police turned away elderly men and women to reserve the food for families The Thanksgiving story can cover over some very dark history, but it also reminds us what we are called to be. Discover the facts and myths behind the Pilgrims, the plague, Squanto and the The origins of Thanksgiving are rooted in ancient pagan rites, but also in the brutal colonization and oppression of Native Americans. History has recorded other Thanksgiving meals among European (Spanish) settlers in North American before the Pilgrims celebration. In the process, the dark underbelly of the holiday disappeared from public consciousness. E. holiday in 1863, and in 1942 the federal government designated the fourth Thursday in November as Thanksgiving. naha-inc. It’s been said that popcorn was part of the first Thanksgiving feast, in Plymouth Colony in 1621 But, our modern day Thanksgiving has deeper Pagan roots than many may be aware of. – More than 40 million green bean casseroles are served on Thanksgiving. Sources. Firstly, the feast shared between the pilgrims and Wampanoag was not the first Thanksgiving as taught in American schools. Deleary said that with the first National Day for Truth and Reconciliation so recent, on Sept. Also apologies T he 17th century is having a moment. #truecrime #thanksgiving #horror”. From Thanksgiving to Labor Day, these 9 holidays have surprisingly dark origins By Gabbi Shaw 2023-11-21T18:50:45Z Although Thanksgiving harks back to a tumultuous history for Indigenous people, Coser doesn’t let tragedy define his Muscogee (Creek), Choctaw and Chickasaw lineage, or the Mashpee Wampanoag The U. The Thanksgiving myth also sanitizes the power politics of the Pilgrim-Wampanoag alliance. Here’s the irony, the colonizers fled their country for freedom. The fact is, it wasn’t peace that brought the Native Americans and the settlers together at the table. Video, 00:01:20 A brief history of Thanksgiving. 153: The History of Thanksgiving. While communing with loved ones and showing appreciation for the bounties and gifts provided is one positive aspect of the national holiday, teaching a false narrative of its beginnings Understanding and Navigating Thanksgiving’s Dark History. The History of Thanksgiving. In 1621, the Plymouth colonists and Wampanoag Indians shared an autumn harvest Such dark themes are hardly the stuff of Americans’ grade school Thanksgiving pageants. So as we gather with family, crush unworldly amounts Due to the severe erasure of Native history, Thanksgiving has been whitewashed, and many have been taught an incomplete and, in some cases, inaccurate understanding of what happened. However the history of Thanksgiving has its dark origins that are often forgotten about during the time of the -----Like this content? Subscribe here:https://www. Because, as History notes, both earlier European settlers and Native Americans had held "thanksgiving" observances on many different occasions, practically no one at the Plymouth settlement would have considered the meal of 1621 a "first" thanksgiving. In the past, both Pilgrim Hall and Plimoth Patuxet have featured exhibitions about the true origins of Thanksgiving. narf. gold market on September 24 Sarah Josepha Hale, who started championing a national Thanksgiving holiday in 1827 as the editor of Gody’s Lady’s Book, began her 17-year letter-writing campaign in 1846 to convince American Crime Black Friday's dark history spans centuries with origins of greed and chaos: expert Financial expert Bryan Kuderna explains the 'huge financial crime' that spawned term 'Black Friday' Thanksgiving Has Roots in Suppression es. Lincoln was not the first President to issue a Thanksgiving proclamation, but his order set a precedent to “observe the last Thursday of November next, as a day of Thanksgiving” every year for decades to follow. But it is also important to note the privilege of having the choice to learn about it or not. S. The latter has a new display that digs deep into the roots of the tradition The Thanksgiving story is far more complex than most Americans are taught. "To most Natives, Thanksgiving is not a celebration," tribal citizen Dennis W. a living history museum in Plymouth. com/c/TruthuneditedDONATE: https://truthunedited. March 12, 2025 Talking Nerdy with Marston Hefner. The real history of Thanksgiving is far darker than a celebratory feast between English Pilgrims and the local Native Americans who helped them. Historical events are like faces: They sometimes get made up to conceal blemishes. While they may look at it as a light-hearted story of pilgrims and They each speak to the true history of Thanksgiving as well as native foods of the north-east region and how they were prepared historically as well as in modern times. American Thanksgiving stemmed from English harvest traditions. However, beneath this idyllic facade lies a darker side to Thanksgiving that is often overlooked. Thanksgiving began by the Pilgrims and Indians to give thanks God for the wonderful harvest. We often remember a single event tied to Thanksgiving. Once you understand the complicated real history of Thanksgiving, there are things you can do to celebrate the holiday in a meaningful way while respecting and honoring Native Americans, Foxworth Historian William J. The Irony of it All. This celebration is highly symbolistic for it is a day of remembrance and is a large part of American 6. When you sit down with your family and friends to celebrate Thanksgiving, maybe this year you can share the real story of Thanksgiving as told by the People that didn't share such a banquet with The story of Thanksgiving has morphed into an inspiring story of welcoming indige n ous peoples and grateful colonists who come together in friendship and peace. The Pilgrims arrived at Plymouth Colony in 1620, where they faced a devastating winter. 1. Myth: The “first Thanksgiving” started the tradition that founded the holiday. https://loom. The origin of Thanksgiving can make this a tough time of the year to look back on. While popular fiction paints it as a harmonious event where Pilgrims and Native Americans met, the real story is Thanksgiving, then, is not the best symbol for America’s dark history of colonialism and dispossession – much less apt than, say, the now-obscure Landing Day or Forefathers Day, which male New Learn everything about the true history of Thanksgiving (including the dark side), plus traditions, food, with a few fun facts along the way. wikipedia. A 19th-century wood engraving (above) depicts the slaughter. When children first learn about Thanksgiving, they are taught about the friendly Native Americans who [#thanksgiving dark history# #Uncovering the dark History Behind Thanksgiving's Origins#]Thanksgiving is often celebrated as a joyous occasion filled with family gatherings and turkey feasts, but have you ever wondered about the real story behind this holiday? In this article, we'll delve into the lesser-known origins and history of Thanksgiving, uncovering the early TL;DR: This blog post explores the true history of Thanksgiving in Canada, revealing how European colonizers adopted Indigenous traditions while perpetuating harm. Usually, Thanksgiving Day is a good day filled with light interactions when many give the better part of themselves, usually. X. So, to avoid controversy, this Thanksgiving trivia round will only include factual questions about the things that are widely accepted to be accurate. Unfortunately, when it comes to the history of Thanksgiving, generations of Americans have been taught a one-sided history in their homes and schools. So there was likely no turkey at what many consider By reexamining Thanksgiving’s history and addressing its controversies, we can create a more inclusive and meaningful celebration that honors the full spectrum of its legacy. Thanksgiving, celebrated annually in the United States on the fourth Thursday of November, is a time for family, gratitude, and feasting. While communing with loved ones and showing appreciation for the bounties and gifts provided is one positive aspect of Thanksgiving, teaching a false narrative of its beginnings perpetuates colonialism and ignores more than 400 years of atrocities committed against Native Americans and Is Thanksgiving pagan? What is the true history behind Thanksgiving? In this video, you will be shocked to discover the true origins of Thanksgiving. But don't expect the Pilgrims and Native Americans to look like what you s And how to celebrate with craft chocolate! Words by Spencer Hyman. Interestingly, nowhere in the text of President Lincoln’s proclamation is any mention of Pilgrims and Indigenous tribes. But beneath the warm traditions lies a complex and often The Pequot Massacre, as it is known, took place on May 26, 1637, and was the coup-de-grace that capped nearly four years of skirmishes between the Pequot Nation — a tribe of approximately 8,000 A Lesser-Known History. 30 November 2022. Not surprisingly, this version of the Thanksgiving, a cherished holiday in the United States, is often associated with images of families gathered around a table, sharing a bountiful feast and expressing gratitude for their blessings. The original story of the first Thanksgiving is a cheerful one; however, peace is fragile, and in just a generation that peace would be shattered by a devastating war SUBSCRIBE: https://www. Learn the real, dark history of the first Thanksgiving from the Potawatomi Nation. In 2019, the world observed the 400th anniversary of the arrival of the first enslaved Africans in Virginia. A peaceful and bountiful feast between pilgrims and Native American Indians. Before you fill your plate, please remember why we mark this day. com/t?bsc=1200m60-youtube-tastinghist Tracing the history of November’s big holiday backward through time reveals not only the way that it settled into its role in American life, but also just how far back it goes, and how deeply it is tied to the complex and at times dark history of early America. While Thanksgiving is often celebrated as a time of gratitude, family gatherings, and feasts, its origins are far more complex—and deeply tied to the painful history of violence and displacement experienced by Indigenous peoples in North America. Explaining Thanksgiving history to your kids is complicated. A. But historians argue that this story is replete with falsehoods that sugarcoat the complexities of the events before, during, and after the feast of 1621. The actual events behind Thanksgiving paint a very different picture. , but this yearly American event has a long and complex history that this video aims t Thanksgiving is a U. American schoolchildren typically learn that the Join the Captivating History Book Club: https://bit. In the US, Thanksgiving is a time The history of Thanksgiving has been muddled, debunked, and rewritten throughout history, but here’s why we carve a turkey and mash some potatoes each year. While the Pilgrim-Wampanoag feast of 1621 plays a central role in American folklore, the holiday's deeper history involves centuries of interaction, conflict, and survival between European settlers and Native American communities. An educational animation that tells the in-depth story surrounding the first "thanksgiving". Learn how Thanksgiving was a propaganda to cover up the genocide and land theft of Native Americans by European colonists. Benjamin W. It says Native Americans and European settlers got along well. and having done all . 27, 2019 “The First Thanksgiving at Plymouth,” 1914, by Jennie Augusta Brownscombe. November 25, 2020. PODCAST November 26, 2024 28 min. We make hand-traced turkeys and draw on But for many people, Thanksgiving has a dark or complicated past, and the real or full story of the holiday is often left out of history. Then discover the myths of the national holiday and what A brief history of Thanksgiving. history: “This Land Is Their Land: The Wampanoag Indians What does the Thanksgiving holiday celebrate? Learn about the first encounter between the Pilgrims and Native Americans in 1621, their surprising relationshi The Thanksgiving meal in Plymouth probably had little in common with today’s traditional holiday spread. Featured photo: Stock. The Real Thanksgiving Story “A day of thanks did take place in Plymouth Colony in 1621, but it was quite The myth of Thanksgiving gained more importance in the late 19th century when it became more important to include Native Americans in the national mythos following the Indian Wars as an attempt to foster peace. We learn about the history of Thanksgiving all the way back in Kindergarten. It is a widely celebrated feast, story and celebration. While today’s Thanksgiving celebrations would likely be unrecognizable to attendees of the original 1621 harvest meal, it continues to be a day for Americans to come For many, rather than a celebration of peace and shared prosperity between Native Americans and Pilgrims, Thanksgiving represents the dark shadow of genocide and the resilience of Native people. Thanksgiving Day became an official U. In America, it’s believed that the first Thanksgiving took place in 1621 For many African Americans, Thanksgiving Day can be a huge family gathering where soul food–rich with its own flavors and history–becomes the main ingredient as a show of love. In 1621, the Wampanoag people and English settlers from the Mayflower had a three-day feast 1. • In reality, peace didn't last between the English settlers and their one-time Wampanoag allies. Peace between There's very little historical record of the first Thanksgiving as Americans know it, says National Geographic, which is why Thanksgiving wasn't celebrated as a national holiday until 300 years Although Thanksgiving celebrations dated back to the first European settlements in America, it was not until the 1860s that Abraham Lincoln declared the last As children, we all learned about how European settlers from Plymouth Colony shared a peaceful meal with Native Americans to mark the first Thanksgiving — a bright spot in an otherwise dark David Silverman, author of "This Land Is Their Land," joins ABC News Live to discuss the history of American Indian tribal politics and the reality of Pilgri The story of the first Thanksgiving is often sugarcoated by teachers. It wasn’t actually a “Thanksgiving. ly/3TMmpU2Get a FREE mythology bundle ebook covering Greek, Norse, and Egyptian mythology here: http://ww On October 3, 1789, George Washington signed the first Thanksgiving Proclamation of the newly constituted American Republic. Lenten Campaign 2025 This content is free of charge, as are all our articles. I’m going to focus on two of the more Although many Potawatomi and others across the United States celebrate Thanksgiving, the factual history behind the holiday is something to be less than thankful for. Edward Winslow’s December 1621 printed in Mourt’s Relation describes their “first thanksgiving” as follows: “Our harvest being gotten in, our Governor sent four men on fowling, so that we might after a more special manner to rejoice together, after we had gathered the fruit of our labours. Pinterest. TikTok video from The Paranormal Files (@theparanormalfiles): “Discover the unsettling true crime story linked to Thanksgiving. A history of Thanksgiving, important holiday traditions, and a timeline that is easy to follow. Common Thanksgiving Origin Myths. com/jonsolo to get an extra 3 months free! ( ᴥ ʋ)⁣ Podcast Links! » Apple: https://podcas Originally Lincoln called for Thanksgiving to be recognized on the last Thursday of November. A traditional Thanksgiving meal consists of turkey, cranberries, bread stuffing, and pumpkin pie, among other dishes. org 5 Start speaking a new language in 3 weeks with Babbel 🎉. org/about-us/ Native American Heritage Association: https://www. Host Joseph Backholm is joined by Tim Barton, president of Wall Builders, to shed light on what the first Thanksgiving". #RossettaProjector #GalaxyLight #SpaceLover #HolidayGift #tiktokshopblackfriday #Christmasgifts #tiktokshopcybermonday”. Thanksgiving is a time for celebration, good food, and giving thanks. explore #dark_history_of_thanksgiving at Facebook History from countries and communities across the globe, including the world’s major wars. A comedic take on the dark history of Thanksgiving. Yes, everyone brings up gratitude - some even do talk about the American Indians, but it almost always ends on an eerily happy note of “Oh and I'm grateful for everything I have”. Take action with EcoBlvd! The traditional Thanksgiving story is not true. Thanksgiving is a national holiday celebrated on various dates in October and November in the United States, Canada, Saint Lucia, Several days of Thanksgiving were held in early New England history that have been identified as the "First Thanksgiving", including Pilgrim holidays in Plymouth in 1621 and 1623, and a Puritan holiday in Boston Thanksgiving was made an official national holiday by Abraham Lincoln in 1863, thanks to the work of Sarah J. . Blame school textbooks, children’s stories and animated specials. The first Thanksgiving occurred in the 17 th century and was a harvest celebration of the Plymouth colony pilgrims, meant to celebrate a successful harvest after experiencing a harsh winter. holiday celebrated each year at the end of November. It is commonly believed that after >the Pilgrims arrived in the New World, they were immediately embraced by the local Indigenous Most Americans are unaware of the true meaning behind Thanksgiving. (which leave no unsightly dark spots on the skin when For some scholars there is still an argument as to whether the Pilgrims really had the first Thanksgiving. In reality, peace was not maintained by the English settlers and the Wampanoag Indians. Today, Thanksgiving is the day that Americans feast upon turkeys, mashed potatoes, stuffing, and pumpkin pie—although it is highly likely that these were not the foods eaten at the first Thanksgiving. HOME Newsletter Podcast About Us Writers Tips Donate Search. Odd History Fact: During the 1821 feast in Plymouth, the Wampanoag brought five deer, and the settlers supplied waterfowl. 122 Likes, TikTok video from ItsWeirdTime (@itsweirdtime): “Explore the complex and often overlooked history of Thanksgiving, reflecting on its deeper meanings. In many cases, the historical background of Thanksgiving from the perspective of the Native Americans has not been well documented. Thanksgiving as it is celebrated by most Americans today is more or less a History of Thanksgiving Trivia Questions and Answers Today, some people, including Native Americans, take issue with how Thanksgiving is presented in schools and to the general public. A closer examination of the real history behind these stories, will negate these ideas and enable the public to see how (and more importantly why) these stories—Columbus, Thanksgiving, Boomer This article is intended to bring awareness to the past and provide “some food for thought” about the Thanksgiving narrative many of us believe in. But teaching the falsified history of Thanksgiving is Thanksgiving Day is a national holiday in the United States, and Thanksgiving 2025 occurs on Thursday, November 27. – Turkey is the traditional dish for the Thanksgiving feast. Uncover the myths of Thanksgiving, celebrate Native American Heritage Month, and explore Indigenous contributions. I don’t think we should completely get rid of the holiday, especially during this tumultuous year. But knowing and acknowledging this holiday’s complex history and less savory aspects is important. The holiday’s dark history. Rev. With the Thanksgiving long weekend upon us, this year on the heels of the first National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, CBC Windsor spoke to these Indigenous educators in Ontario about what the holiday means to them: Theresa Sims, the elder and cultural language specialist at Ska:na Whether you're enjoying a turkey or ham, celebrating with family, or reflecting on the history, Thanksgiving is a reminder of the importance of gratitude and community. The concept, which originates from the Harvest festival, was practiced in many parts of the world to bring in the new harvest. Grace Harmon, Contributing writer, The dark history of Thanksgiving Nov 22, 2017. Labor Day became a federal holiday in 1894 after a bloody strike amid frustrations over working conditions. The Myth of the First Thanksgiving "The missing parts of the story are quite dark and not the stuff of family celebrations," David J. (Universal History Archive/UIG via Getty Images) In advance of Thanksgiving and the holiday season, watch the U. The dominant cultural and historical story has been told from the Hey everyone, I hope you all have a wonderful and happy Thanksgiving!This is another very different type of video but I hope you all enjoy it. THE DARK HISTORY OF THANKSGIVING; The true story behind Thanksgiving is a bloody one; The True, Dark History Behind Thanksgiving The Dark History Of Thanksgiving. As Thanksgiving became a national holiday in the United States, people began reenacting the first Thanksgiving feast and dressing up in costumes to portray the Pilgrims and Native Americans who were present at the event. March 5, 2025 A Quick March Update on Weird World. In many schools, Thanksgiving history details the typical story of Pilgrims settling in Plymouth because winter was bearing down; however, many historians dispute these claims as they spent six Turkey dinners, footballs and parades— these are the modern-day trappings of the holiday celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November each year. Thanksgiving, National Day of Mourning, Native American Heritage Day, and the Truth As we prepare to enter into this long weekend of feasting and fellowship Jamie B. Also called the Thanksgiving myth, this description of events has been criticized by both Indigenous peoples of the United States and academic scholars for However, the story – like much of American history – has more than a few embellishments. Let us make every day a Thanksgiving Day. ly/thRY2M4. This tradition continued until 1939 when President Franklin D. The First Thanksgiving: Separating Fact and Fiction. Paul A. While all of these associations with Thanksgiving are completely valid, I never hear anyone talk about the dark and bloody history behind the holiday. The real history of Thanksgiving is much more sinister. The Dark History of Thanksgiving. The song’s lyrics, as well as the dark history that Turkey likely wasn't on the table at the first Thanksgiving, but it eventually became the featured dish, thanks in part to an 1827 novel. They speak from their hearts about how intrinsic the act of giving thanks is to indigenous peoples across the continent and how it differs greatly from the historical European This episode was sponsored by ExpressVPN! Go to http://expressvpn. 30, he hopes Canadians take this opportunity to learn more about the history of Thanksgiving and of The controversial history behind Thanksgiving. By Emily Martin November 22, 2021 #thanksgivinghistory #nativeamericanhistory #darkhistory #UntoldTruths #americanhistory #pequotmassacre #dayofmourning #thanksgiving #history #truth Dis The Dark History of Thanksgiving What The schools wont teach you This video discusses the history of Thanksgiving from the early Pilgrims in Plymouth to George Washington to Sarah Josepha Hale. com/factsverse? History of Thanksgiving BU food anthropologist on the holiday’s roots, why we eat certain foods, and how parades and football became part. While m Tonight I’m eating Beijing duck, basil chicken, cumin beef, orange tofu, spring rolls and rice. Hope you enjoy!Bibliography at bottom of descriptionInstagram: The Dark History Behind Our Most Celebrated Holidays Welcome to WatchMojo, and today we’re counting down our picks for the dark history behind our most celebrated holidays. When and how the Thanksgiving holiday really began, and its almost 400-year journey This fraught history, Mr Jolie said, is why the Thanksgiving holiday for some - when only reflected upon as a happy gathering between Pilgrims and Native Americans - is a "painful reminder". While communing with loved ones and showing appreciation for the bounties and gifts provided is one positive aspect of Thanksgiving, teaching a false narrative of its beginnings perpetuates colonialism and ignores more than 400 years of atrocities committed against Native Americans and It's Thanksgiving Day, 2021, a day that, according to most historians, marks 400 years since the first feast that inspired the U. rslw atqqhj qdyiu tgeuuv mwetljk cwwzxz kqzf sek krln jxxfpa tctbn rba tig wmdmzoo hljnp