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How the author of “Mary Had a Little Lamb” made Thanksgiving a national holiday
Thanksgiving, a beloved American holiday, has a rich history and a fascinating origin story. While the celebration of togetherness between the Pilgrims and Native Americans in 1621 is often associated with the first Thanksgiving, it was not the only celebration of its kind in early American history. Thanks to the efforts of an influential writer and activist, Thanksgiving became an annual, official event and a cherished tradition for generations to come.
The controversy and growing popularity of Thanksgiving
According to National Geographic, Thanksgiving has had its fair share of controversy surrounding its origins. The Virginia colony began celebrating an annual Thanksgiving in 1619, even before the famous feast at Plymouth. In addition, Spanish colonists and the Seloy tribe of Florida enjoyed a feast as early as 1565. As America grew into a nation, its citizens wanted their own holiday to commemorate their victory over the English.
In the late 1700s and 1800s, the idea of Thanksgiving as a holiday gained momentum. Notable figures such as President George Washington, as well as the Union and Confederate armies, expressed a desire for a day of thanksgiving. President Washington proclaimed a day of thanksgiving in 1789 for the outcome of the Revolutionary War and for the Constitution. Similarly, during the Civil War, both Union and Confederate soldiers found solace in celebrating Thanksgiving for various victories.
The Influence of Sarah Josepha Hale
A pivotal figure in shaping Thanksgiving into what it is today was Sarah Josepha Hale. Hale, a writer, activist, and author of the famous nursery rhyme “Mary Had a Little Lamb,” played a pivotal role in convincing President Abraham Lincoln to establish Thanksgiving as an annual, official holiday.
According to History.com, Hale had been celebrating Thanksgiving in New England for years and even devoted a chapter of her 1827 novel to the holiday. She went on to found American Ladies Magazine and later became an editor at Godey’s Lady Book, where she published recipes for Thanksgiving staples such as turkey, stuffing, and pumpkin pie.
Hale’s advocacy for Thanksgiving went beyond her publications. She lobbied lawmakers to recognize Thanksgiving as an official holiday and wrote numerous editorials on the subject. By 1854, her efforts had paid off: 30 U.S. states and territories officially recognized the holiday.
Lincoln’s role in creating Thanksgiving
But it wasn’t until President Abraham Lincoln’s famous Gettysburg Address in 1863 that Thanksgiving became an official national holiday. Inspired by Hale’s persistent advocacy, Lincoln agreed to establish Thanksgiving as a recurring holiday. This decision cemented Sarah Josepha Hale’s legacy as a key figure in ensuring that Thanksgiving took root and became an integral part of American culture.
The Legacy of Thanksgiving
Today, as we gather with our loved ones to celebrate Thanksgiving, it is important to reflect on the origins of this cherished holiday. The efforts of Sarah Josepha Hale, a dedicated advocate for Thanksgiving, played a significant role in shaping the holiday into what it is today.
As we enjoy the traditional Thanksgiving feast of turkey, stuffing, and pumpkin pie, let us remember the contributions of Hale and the countless individuals who have celebrated this holiday throughout history. Thanksgiving serves as a reminder of unity and gratitude, bringing people together to give thanks for the blessings in their lives.
Finally, the story of how the author of “Mary Had a Little Lamb” made Thanksgiving a national holiday is a testament to the power of advocacy and the enduring spirit of a holiday that unites us all. So as you give thanks this holiday season, take a moment to recognize the efforts of Sarah Josepha Hale and the impact she had in establishing Thanksgiving as a cherished American tradition.
FAQS
Who wrote “Mary Had A Little Lamb”?
The author of “Mary Had a Little Lamb” was Sarah Josepha Hale, a prominent writer, activist, and influential figure in American history.
How did Sarah Josepha Hale help make Thanksgiving a national holiday?
Sarah Josepha Hale was instrumental in convincing President Abraham Lincoln to establish Thanksgiving as an annual, official holiday through her persistent advocacy and lobbying efforts.
What other contributions did Sarah Josepha Hale make?
In addition to her efforts to establish Thanksgiving as a national holiday, Sarah Josepha Hale was the founder of American Ladies Magazine and an editor of Godey’s Lady Book. She also published recipes for Thanksgiving staples and devoted a chapter of her 1827 novel to the holiday.
When did Thanksgiving officially become a federal holiday?
Thanksgiving officially became a national holiday after President Abraham Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address in 1863, following Sarah Josepha Hale’s persistent advocacy.
What was the meaning of Thanksgiving in the late 1700s and 1800s?
Thanksgiving gained popularity during this period, with notable figures such as President George Washington and both the Union and Confederate armies expressing a desire for a day of thanksgiving. President Washington proclaimed a day of thanks in 1789, while Civil War soldiers celebrated Thanksgiving for various victories.
Why is Thanksgiving an important holiday in American culture?
Thanksgiving is an important holiday in American culture because it serves as a reminder of unity, gratitude, and the blessings in our lives. It brings families and communities together to express gratitude and appreciation for all they have.