Presidential Proclamations and Gratitude
Introduction:
In the fall 1621, the Pilgrims and Wampanoag tribe gathered for a feast to commemorate their friendship and bountiful harvest. The gathering is now remembered as the first “Thanksgiving.” Throughout the history of the United States, Americans have used days of thanks to reflect on challenges and to express gratitude to God. In this lesson, we will look at three proclamations of Thanksgiving given by different presidents throughout American history. In each, notice what they give thanks for and why they’re asking for a public day of thanksgiving.
