The content on this page will guide you in explaining why we celebrate Thanksgiving.

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When it comes to Thanksgiving, most students will hear only about the Pilgrims and Indians in school. But, that’s only the HISTORY of the holiday. Thanksgiving is actually a federal holiday set aside to thank our Creator for the previous year’s blessings. Every year the President makes a proclamation declaring the fourth Thursday of November as a Day of Thanksgiving.

1789 George Washington “Whereas it is the duty of all Nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey his will, to be grateful for his benefits, and humbly to implore his protection and favor-- and whereas both Houses of Congress have by their joint Committee requested me to recommend to the People of the United States a day of public thanksgiving and prayer to be observed by acknowledging with grateful hearts the many signal favors of Almighty God especially by affording them an opportunity peaceably to establish a form of government for their safety and happiness.”

2012 President Obama “Let us spend this day by lifting up those we love, mindful of the grace bestowed upon us by God and by all who have made our lives richer with their presence.”

2018 President Trump “I encourage all Americans to gather, in homes and places of worship, to offer a prayer of thanks to God for our many blessings.”

SHARE our Gateways Minute Thanksgiving videos (below) on your social media. Email a link to an article or blog on Thanksgiving to a teacher or family member. Help restore the real reason for the holiday.

VIDEOS:

Here is a great Thanksgiving lesson idea that you can use in your classroom!

Do you know why we celebrate Thanksgiving each year?
Here are some interesting facts about Thanksgiving that can be taught in public schools!
Did you know Thanksgiving is a great topic for a civics lesson?
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