Thanksgiving in America: The Legends and The Proclamations

The first Thanksgiving in America was the celebration of the ratification of the Peace Treaty signed in April !621between the Wampanoag and the Pilgrims on the Mayflower. They were to be neighbors. Heretofore, all who came were explorers or traders. The traders pillaged and brought smallpox. Puritans, who came ten years later had their own agenda. The Treaty helped the Wampanoag maintain control of the area.

Washington led Thanksgiving with inclusion and without religion. It was a deliberate program in his new administration. Lincoln called for an annual Federal Celebration. He included North and South alike. Again, it did not have a religious intent. It has continued as a national holiday that is family oriented and inclusionary.

As a subset we have chosen proclamations who have been descendants of the Mayflower Colonists. Other recent presidents have included are Obama, descendant of Thomas Blossom, ranking spiritual leader, JRK's address written shortly before his death, and Biden's address after he was elected. It is significant as the document before the insurrection. It provides clarity for that Thanksgiving.

Importantly, this book gives a good foundation for the significance of Thanksgiving under Lincoln and freedom.