The Journey of Thanksgiving From Pilgrims to National Celebration

Thanksgiving traces back to the Pilgrims and Native Americans in 1621, who celebrated a harvest feast. Over time, it evolved from a religious holiday to a national celebration, with Abraham Lincoln declaring it a national holiday in 1863. Modern traditions include family gatherings, NFL games, and parades, with Thanksgiving serving as a day to reflect on gratitude.

What was the main reason the Pilgrims formed a relationship with the neighboring tribe?

• To expand their territory

• To convert them to their religion

• To trade goods and services

• To learn about fishing, planting, and hunting

What was the main dish likely served at the first Thanksgiving in 1621?

• Chicken

• Turkey

• Roast Goose

• Ham

What was the primary focus of New England's Thanksgiving celebrations in later generations?

• A harvest festival

• A military victory celebration

• A religious holiday of fasting and prayer

• A day for family gatherings

In what year did the Continental Congress declare a national day of Thanksgiving?

• 1777

• 1621

• 1863

• 1924

Who played a significant role in establishing a national Thanksgiving Day in the United States?

• George Washington

• Benjamin Franklin

• Thomas Jefferson

• Sarah Josepha Hale

Which U.S. President declared the last Thursday of November as Thanksgiving Day?

• Andrew Jackson

• Abraham Lincoln

• Thomas Jefferson

• George Washington

What was Sarah Josepha Hale's main argument for establishing a national Thanksgiving Day?

• To boost the economy

• To celebrate the harvest

• To unite a nation headed towards Civil War

• To promote religious observance

What was one of the reasons for the formation of the National Football League in the 1920s?

• To boost attendance at games

• To promote college football

• To compete with baseball

• To create a new holiday tradition

Which city is known for its famous Thanksgiving Day Parade that began in 1924?

• Chicago

• Boston

• Los Angeles

• New York

What is the modern significance of Thanksgiving for many Americans?

• A day for shopping

• A time for family and gratitude

• A religious observance

• A day for political discussions