What President Proclaimed Thanksgiving as a National Holiday?
Thanksgiving, a day of gratitude and celebration, holds a special place in the hearts of Americans. It is a time when families come together, share a feast, and express their appreciation for the blessings in their lives. But have you ever wondered which president declared Thanksgiving as a national holiday? The answer lies in the history of this cherished tradition.
In 1863, during the tumultuous period of the Civil War, President Abraham Lincoln played a pivotal role in establishing Thanksgiving as a national holiday. On October 3, 1863, Lincoln issued a proclamation that declared Thanksgiving to be observed on the final Thursday of November. This proclamation was a response to a request from Sarah Josepha Hale, a writer and editor who had been advocating for a national Thanksgiving day for years.
The idea of a national Thanksgiving holiday had been gaining traction since the early 19th century. Sarah Josepha Hale, the editor of Godey’s Lady’s Book, wrote numerous editorials and letters to politicians, including President Lincoln, urging them to establish a day of national thanksgiving. Her efforts were finally rewarded when Lincoln agreed to her proposal.
The proclamation was met with widespread approval and soon became a cherished tradition. In 1941, President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed a bill making Thanksgiving a permanent national holiday, solidifying its place in American culture. Since then, Thanksgiving has been celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November, as declared by Lincoln.
The significance of Lincoln’s proclamation cannot be overstated. It was a time when the nation was divided and struggling. By declaring Thanksgiving a national holiday, Lincoln aimed to bring the country together and foster a spirit of unity and gratitude. This act of unity during a time of war has since become a symbol of the American spirit and the importance of coming together to appreciate the things we have.
In conclusion, it was President Abraham Lincoln who proclaimed Thanksgiving as a national holiday. His visionary decision to establish a day of gratitude and celebration during a time of national crisis has left an indelible mark on American history. Today, Thanksgiving continues to be a time for families to gather, share, and express their appreciation for the blessings in their lives, all thanks to the leadership of President Lincoln.
