One of the biggest holidays celebrated in the month of November is Thanksgiving, where we gather with loved ones to enjoy a feast.
But what exactly are we celebrating? Thanksgiving consist of parts like giving thanks, celebrating the past harvest, history, and lastly having traditional food.
During 1621 a feast was shared between two different groups to celebrate the successful harvest after a long year of survival. These people were known as the English pilgrims and the Wampanoag people. This feast lasted three whole days including a variety of foods. The name “thanksgiving” was literal and meant to be thankful for the hard work that is put into everything we have. This holiday was originated by New England colonists by having their days of prayers to bless their victories, journeys, harvests and more, these days were called “thanksgivings” which were also held on multiple days.
The land of the east coast was being used by native Americans, the Wampanoag people for 12,000 years. The European settlers arrived in 1620 and encountered the native Americans. Knowing the land well and how to thrive in the area, they helped the Europeans learn how to live off the new land.
After a year of sharing the land, the settlers were sent out to hunt for the celebration. Both the natives and the settlers came together for the traditional Thanksgiving feast and played games. They both contributed towards the feast. Thanksgiving Day was proclaimed a national day in 1863 and was finalized in 1941.
The biggest part of Thanksgiving is the feast! During the first feast in 1621, the main course was deer, birds like duck and goose, and seafood. The popular sides were vegetables like beans, corn, squash and pumpkins, along with stews and flatbreads.
A variety of berries and nuts were also served with the beverages beer and water on the side. We today eat the main course of turkey and many sides like stuffing, potatoes, corn, bread, cranberry sauce, and more. Our feast reflects off of most of the foods from the original feast.
In conclusion, Thanksgiving is not only about the food, but the history behind it. This day is also to remember your blessing and be thankful for the good things in life.