Which came first, Canadian Thanksgiving or American Thanksgiving? This question has sparked debates among historians and enthusiasts alike. Both countries celebrate Thanksgiving, but the origins and traditions of each are distinct. Understanding the history behind these celebrations can shed light on the differences and similarities between Canadian and American Thanksgiving. In this article, we will explore the origins of both Canadian and American Thanksgivings, comparing their timelines and traditions to determine which came first.
The American Thanksgiving tradition dates back to the 17th century when the Pilgrims, who had settled in what is now the United States, held a harvest feast in 1621. This feast was a celebration of their successful harvest and a way to give thanks to God for their survival and prosperity. The event was attended by the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag Native Americans, who had helped the settlers survive their first winter in the New World.
On the other hand, Canadian Thanksgiving has its roots in the early 17th century as well, but it was not celebrated as a national holiday until much later. The first recorded Thanksgiving celebration in Canada took place in 1578, when explorer Martin Frobisher held a feast to give thanks for his safe return from a voyage to find the Northwest Passage. However, it was not until 1879 that Thanksgiving was officially declared a national holiday in Canada, and it has been celebrated on the same day as the United States since 1957.
Based on these timelines, it appears that Canadian Thanksgiving predates American Thanksgiving by nearly two centuries. However, the American Thanksgiving celebration gained more widespread recognition and became a national holiday much earlier than its Canadian counterpart. This difference in recognition can be attributed to the fact that the United States was a younger nation at the time and had a stronger emphasis on celebrating its cultural and historical roots.
While the origins of both Canadian and American Thanksgivings are rooted in the same idea of giving thanks for a successful harvest and a prosperous year, the traditions and customs have evolved differently over time. American Thanksgiving is often associated with a feast that includes roast turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie. It is a time for family gatherings and expressing gratitude for the blessings in one’s life.
Canadian Thanksgiving, on the other hand, is more focused on the spiritual aspect of giving thanks. It is a time to reflect on the year’s events and express gratitude for the abundance in one’s life. The traditional meal includes roast turkey, mashed potatoes, gravy, and cornbread, but it also includes dishes that reflect the diverse cultural heritage of Canada, such as maple syrup, beaver tails, and poutine.
In conclusion, while Canadian Thanksgiving predates American Thanksgiving by nearly two centuries, the American celebration gained more widespread recognition and became a national holiday much earlier. Both countries have their unique traditions and customs that make their Thanksgiving celebrations distinct. Understanding the history behind these celebrations can help us appreciate the similarities and differences between Canadian and American Thanksgivings.
