Revolutionary Thanksgivings - The Founders' Version of a Modern Holiday
During the American Revolution, the idea of Thanksgiving as we know it today did not exist.
The Founders, however, did appreciate the idea of giving thanks.
This was largely due to the idea that most of the Founders believed that God was playing a direct role in the affairs of men, and their success should be credited to his intervention.
Proclaiming Thanksgiving
During the American Revolution, Thanksgiving was not celebrated on a specific day each year, but rather was ‘proclaimed’ when the people believed it was necessary.
As such, there were dozens of Thanksgivings declared throughout the period, both at the State and National Level.
Today, we will look at the two most important Thanksgivings of the Revolution.
Victory at Saratoga
In the autumn of 1777, the Continental Army won the Battle of Saratoga.
This was a monumental event, and everyone involved recognized this immediately.
The Continental Congress recommended to General Washington that a day of thanks be proclaimed.
Washington agreed and scheduled December 18, 1777 as the first Thanksgiving celebrated throughout the new nation.
Amending the Constitution
In September of 1789 the new Federal Government was just hitting its stride.
Most Federal Justices had just been nominated and confirmed.
Furthermore, the First Amendment to the Constitution was complete and ready to be sent to the States for ratification.
Elias Boudinot recommended that the Senate and House of Representatives send a joint request to President Washington asking for a national day of thanks.
This was done, and Washington proclaimed the first Thanksgiving under the modern government for October 3, 1789..
Do you want to read about other WAYS THE FOUNDERS CELEBRATED?
Of course you do!
Try this article on Revolutionary Drink:
Which Founder Brewed the Best Beer?
I very rarely have the opportunity to recommend a book on George Washington.
‘A Life’ is by Ron Chernow who wrote the biography on Hamilton which the now-famous Broadway play is based on.
Pick up a copy through the Amazon affiliate link below (you’ll support this site, but don’t worry, Amazon pays me while your price stays the same).
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