AMERICAN THANKSGIVING Meaning and
Definition
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American Thanksgiving is a national holiday celebrated in the United States on the fourth Thursday of November, annually. This day commemorates the gratitude and appreciation for the blessings received throughout the year. It is deeply rooted in historical and cultural significance, tracing its origins to the early European settlers in America.
The tradition of American Thanksgiving dates back to the harvest festivals of the pilgrims at Plymouth in 1621. These early settlers, known as Pilgrims, held a feast to give thanks for the bountiful harvest and the assistance of the Native Americans who had shared their knowledge of farming and survival. Over time, this event became recognized as the first Thanksgiving.
Today, American Thanksgiving is celebrated by gathering with loved ones to share a festive meal usually consisting of roasted turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, sweet potatoes, and pumpkin pie. It also marks the beginning of the holiday season and often includes parades, football games, and various forms of entertainment.
Aside from its traditional aspects, American Thanksgiving serves as a reminder to express gratitude and reflect on the blessings and good fortune in one's life. Beyond the festivities, it is a time for family and friends to come together, strengthen bonds, and create cherished memories.
American Thanksgiving embodies a spirit of giving, community, and togetherness. It encourages individuals to express appreciation, reflect on the past year, and look forward to the future with hope and gratitude.
Etymology of AMERICAN THANKSGIVING
The etymology of the phrase "American Thanksgiving" can be broken down as follows:
1. American: The word "American" pertains to the United States of America, which was named after the Italian explorer Amerigo Vespucci. The name "America" was first used to refer to the continent by German cartographer Martin Waldseemüller in 1507, in honor of Vespucci's explorations in the New World.
2. Thanksgiving: The word "Thanksgiving" originated from the Old English word "þancgiving", which combined "þanc" (thanks, gratitude) with "giefan" (to give). "þancgiving" was used to denote an act of giving thanks or expressing gratitude to God for a bountiful harvest or other blessings.
