"Why is Thanksgiving Day in 2019 Scheduled So Late This Year?"

Why is Thanksgiving so late in 2019?

The date of Thanksgiving in the United States has been a topic of discussion among Americans for centuries. While many people take the holiday for granted, few know the real reason behind its late timing in 2019. In this article, we will explore the historical and cultural context that led to the celebration being held on the fourth Thursday of November.

A Brief History of Thanksgiving

The first Thanksgiving is believed to have taken place in 1621 at the Plymouth Colony in present-day Massachusetts. The event was a harvest feast shared by the English colonists and the Wampanoag Native American tribe. However, this celebration was not repeated annually and its significance was not widely recognized until the 19th century.

The modern American Thanksgiving holiday was first proclaimed by President Abraham Lincoln in 1863, during the Civil War. In his proclamation, Lincoln declared the last Thursday in November to be a national day of thanksgiving. This decision was largely driven by the efforts of Sarah Josepha Hale, a magazine editor and writer who had campaigned for a national thanksgiving holiday for over 30 years.

The Reason Behind the Late Date

So, why did Lincoln choose the last Thursday in November as the date for Thanksgiving? The answer lies in the country's agricultural heritage. In the 19th century, many Americans were still involved in farming, and the harvest season typically took place in late September and early October. By declaring the last Thursday in November as Thanksgiving, Lincoln effectively extended the harvest season, giving farmers and merchants a longer period to sell their products and make a profit.

Additionally, the timing of Thanksgiving also coincided with the traditional European harvest festivals, which were typically held in late November. By adopting this date, Lincoln and his contemporaries aimed to create a sense of continuity with the country's European roots.

The Effect of the 4-Day Weekend

The Evolution of Thanksgiving: A Shift in Dates

In 1939, President Franklin D. Roosevelt moved Thanksgiving to the third Thursday in November, in an attempt to boost the economy. The idea was to extend the holiday shopping season, which would give retailers an extra week to sell goods. However, this change was met with resistance from many Americans, who argued that it disrupted the traditional date and the associated harvest festivals.

Eventually, Congress passed a law in 1941, which fixed the date of Thanksgiving as the fourth Thursday in November. This change has remained in place to this day, with the exception of the year 1942, when Thanksgiving was celebrated on the last Thursday in November due to wartime rationing.

The Impact on American Culture

Thanksgiving has become an integral part of American culture, with families and friends gathering together to share a meal and express gratitude for the blessings in their lives. The holiday has also been the subject of much controversy, particularly regarding its treatment of Native Americans and the Pilgrims' impact on the indigenous population.

Despite these complexities, Thanksgiving remains a beloved holiday in the United States, with its unique blend of historical, cultural, and economic factors contributing to its enduring popularity.

Conclusion (Not Really!)

As we reflect on the history and cultural significance of Thanksgiving, it's clear that its late date in 2019 is a reflection of the country's rich heritage and its ongoing evolution. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or simply someone who appreciates a good feast, there's no denying the importance of Thanksgiving in American life.

Fast Facts: Thanksgiving in 2019