Was Canadian or American Thanksgiving First?
Thanksgiving is a cherished holiday celebrated in both Canada and the United States, with each country claiming to have the first official Thanksgiving celebration. The debate over which country’s Thanksgiving was first has sparked much interest and debate among historians and enthusiasts. This article aims to explore the origins of both Canadian and American Thanksgivings and shed light on the question of which one came first.
Canadian Thanksgiving, known as “L’Action de Grâces,” dates back to October 1621. It was the first official Thanksgiving celebration in what is now Canada. The event was organized by French explorer Samuel de Champlain and his crew, who had just completed a challenging journey to the New World. They celebrated their safe arrival and the bountiful harvest with a feast that included local Indigenous peoples.
On the other hand, American Thanksgiving is often traced back to the 1621 feast held at Plymouth Plantation in what is now Massachusetts. This feast was organized by the Pilgrims, a group of English settlers who had arrived in the New World in 1620. They celebrated their first successful harvest with the Wampanoag tribe, led by Chief Massasoit.
The debate over which country’s Thanksgiving was first primarily revolves around the definition of “first.” Some argue that since the Canadian celebration predates the American one by 14 years, Canada should be credited with the first official Thanksgiving. However, others contend that the American celebration was more widespread and had a greater impact on the development of the holiday as we know it today.
The American Thanksgiving celebration gained widespread recognition and was officially declared a national holiday by President George Washington in 1789. Over the years, it has become a time for families to gather, express gratitude, and enjoy a feast that traditionally includes roast turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie.
In contrast, Canadian Thanksgiving was not declared a national holiday until 1879. However, it has been celebrated informally since the early 19th century. Canadian Thanksgiving is typically held on the second Monday of October, making it one of the earliest national holidays in the world.
While it is clear that both countries have rich histories and traditions surrounding Thanksgiving, it is challenging to definitively determine which one was first. Both celebrations have their unique origins and have evolved into distinct holidays that are cherished by millions of people worldwide.
In conclusion, the question of whether Canadian or American Thanksgiving was first remains a topic of debate. While Canada can claim the first official Thanksgiving celebration, the American holiday has had a more significant impact on the way Thanksgiving is celebrated globally. Regardless of its origins, Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude, family, and togetherness, and both countries can take pride in their respective traditions.
