Table of Contents
Listening Activity
This listening activity explores the rich history of Thanksgiving, offering a perfect blend of cultural knowledge and historical insight. Ideal for English learners looking to deepen their understanding of American traditions and for native speakers wishing to refresh their knowledge of this beloved holiday, this activity provides an engaging and informative experience for all.
History of Thanksgiving in the United States
Thanksgiving, which has been celebrated in the United States for centuries, is a time for giving thanks to God but also a time for families and loved ones to gather and have a big meal with a turkey as the main part of it. Here is a listening material about the history of the celebration. Listen and do the quiz.
Listening Comprehension Task
Read the following statements and decide if they are true or false based on the text about the history of Thanksgiving.
- The first Thanksgiving feast in 1621 included dishes like roast goose, corn, codfish, and lobster.
- The early Thanksgivings were focused on religious fasting and giving thanks rather than harvest celebrations.
- A national day of Thanksgiving was first declared in 1777 to celebrate a victory over the British.
- By the mid-19th century, Thanksgiving was celebrated on the same date by all states.
- Sarah Josepha Hale was instrumental in making Thanksgiving a unified national holiday.
- The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade started in 1924.
- President Abraham Lincoln declared the last Thursday of November as Thanksgiving Day in 1863.
The script of the video
History of Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving’s history shows its evolution from a modest harvest celebration. In 1621, Pilgrims in Plymouth, Massachusetts, shared a feast with the Wampanoag tribe, featuring dishes like roast goose, corn, codfish, and lobster—different from today’s turkey tradition. Early Thanksgivings were centered on religious fasting and giving thanks rather than the harvest festival we know now.
The concept of a national Thanksgiving emerged in 1777 when the Continental Congress marked a day to celebrate their victory over the British at Saratoga. By the mid-19th century, states celebrated Thanksgiving on various dates. Sarah Josepha Hale, a determined magazine editor, campaigned for a unified national holiday. Her efforts succeeded when President Abraham Lincoln declared the last Thursday of November as Thanksgiving Day in 1863.
By the 20th century, Thanksgiving included parades and football games, with the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade starting in 1924. Today, it is a cherished occasion for family gatherings and reflection. From its historical origins to current traditions, Thanksgiving remains a time for gratitude and togetherness.
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