Which u.s. holiday was officially declared in 1863 by president lincoln?

General
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which u.s. holiday was officially declared in 1863 by president lincoln?

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Which U.S. holiday was officially declared in 1863 by President Lincoln?

Answer: The U.S. holiday that President Abraham Lincoln officially declared in 1863 is Thanksgiving. The proclamation was made during the American Civil War, marking a pivotal moment in the history of the holiday’s celebration across the United States.

Historical Context

Thanksgiving was celebrated in various forms prior to 1863, but it was not a fixed annual event recognized at the national level. Historically, days of thanksgiving were celebrated independently by different colonies and states as harvest festivals or religious observances.

  • Sarah Josepha Hale’s Advocacy: The declaration of Thanksgiving as a national holiday was significantly influenced by Sarah Josepha Hale, an influential editor and writer who campaigned for the holiday to be recognized on a national scale. She wrote numerous editorials and letters to politicians advocating for a national Thanksgiving Day.

President Lincoln’s Proclamation

President Lincoln issued Proclamation 106 on October 3, 1863, designating the final Thursday in November as a “day of Thanksgiving and Praise.”

  • Purpose of the Proclamation: The proclamation aimed to foster a sense of unity and gratitude despite the backdrop of the Civil War, encouraging citizens to reflect on their blessings even amidst national turmoil.
  • Text of the Proclamation: In his proclamation, Lincoln invited Americans to observe the holiday with “a day of Thanksgiving and Praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the Heavens,” making it a day for the nation to express gratitude and seek healing.

Impact and Legacy

  • National Tradition: Lincoln’s proclamation set the precedent for a national Thanksgiving Day. Subsequent presidents continued to announce annual Thanksgiving observances, and in 1941, Congress finally formalized the holiday, establishing Thanksgiving Day as the fourth Thursday in November.
  • Cultural Significance: Thanksgiving became a significant cultural event in the United States, known for family gatherings, feasting, and reflection on gratitude.

Commemorations and Celebrations

  • Traditional Meals: Thanksgiving celebrations typically include a feast with dishes such as turkey, stuffing, cranberries, and pumpkin pie, reflecting the emphasis on abundance and gratitude.
  • Parades and Events: Many Americans participate in community activities, parades, and charitable events during the holiday, fostering a spirit of togetherness and charity.

By designating Thanksgiving as an official holiday, President Lincoln not only helped unify the nation during a time of division but also laid the foundation for a cherished American tradition.

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