Why Is Thanksgiving on the 4th Thursday in 2019?

Thanksgiving is a cherished holiday in the United States, celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November each year. It is a time for families and friends to come together, express gratitude, and enjoy a bountiful feast. However, have you ever wondered why Thanksgiving falls on the fourth Thursday of November? In this article, we will delve into the historical origins and legislative decisions that led to the establishment of this date for Thanksgiving in 2019.

The Historical Origins of Thanksgiving:
Thanksgiving has its roots in the early colonial period of American history. The first Thanksgiving is believed to have taken place in 1621 when the Pilgrims and Native Americans gathered to celebrate a successful harvest. However, it wasn’t until much later that Thanksgiving became an official holiday.

In 1863, during the height of the Civil War, President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed Thanksgiving as a national holiday. He declared that it should be observed on the last Thursday of November. This proclamation aimed to foster unity and gratitude among Americans during a time of great division and strife.

The Shift to the Fourth Thursday:
For many years, Thanksgiving was celebrated on the last Thursday of November. However, in 1939, a unique situation arose that prompted a change in the date. That year, November had five Thursdays, and retailers were concerned about the shortened holiday shopping season. With Thanksgiving falling on the last Thursday, there would be only 24 shopping days until Christmas. This led to a conflict between retailers and President Franklin D. Roosevelt.

In an effort to appease retailers and extend the holiday shopping season, President Roosevelt made an unprecedented decision. In 1939, he moved Thanksgiving up by one week to the third Thursday of November. This decision was met with mixed reactions from the public, with some embracing the change while others vehemently opposed it.

The Controversy and Reversion:
President Roosevelt’s decision to change the date of Thanksgiving sparked controversy and confusion across the nation. Many states refused to adopt the new date, resulting in a divided celebration. Some states continued to observe Thanksgiving on the last Thursday of November, while others followed the new date set by the President.

This division persisted for three years until 1942 when Congress intervened. In an attempt to bring uniformity to the celebration, Congress passed a law that established Thanksgiving as a legal holiday on the fourth Thursday of November. This decision aimed to put an end to the confusion and ensure that all states celebrated Thanksgiving on the same day.

Thanksgiving on the Fourth Thursday in 2019:
Fast forward to 2019, and we find ourselves celebrating Thanksgiving on the fourth Thursday of November once again. This year, November begins on a Friday, making it possible for Thanksgiving to fall on the latest possible date, the 28th. The fourth Thursday of November in 2019 is precisely on the 28th, providing us with a day to express gratitude and enjoy the company of loved ones.

Conclusion:
Thanksgiving‘s placement on the fourth Thursday of November in 2019 is a result of historical events and legislative decisions. From its humble beginnings as a harvest celebration to its establishment as a national holiday by President Lincoln, Thanksgiving has evolved over time. The shift from the last Thursday to the third Thursday and finally settling on the fourth Thursday showcases the influence of retail concerns and the desire for national unity. Regardless of the specific date, Thanksgiving remains a cherished occasion for Americans to come together and give thanks for the blessings in their lives.