November 26 in American History
Following Washington's proclamation, Americans marked the first Thanksgiving under the new Constitution — a day of gratitude for the "peaceable" establishment of their government. It wouldn't become an annual national holiday until Lincoln fixed the date in 1863, but the tradition of a united day of thanks started here.
In 1789: the first national Thanksgiving is observed. Following Washington's proclamation, Americans marked the first Thanksgiving under the new Constitution — a day of gratitude for the "peaceable" establishment of their government.
Following Washington's proclamation, Americans marked the first Thanksgiving under the new Constitution — a day of gratitude for the "peaceable" establishment of their government. It wouldn't become an annual national holiday until Lincoln fixed the date in 1863, but the tradition of a united day of thanks started here.
The Daily Poll · Weigh In
What are you most grateful for as an American?
Opinion, not a quiz — no wrong answer.
★ Forge Your Freedom
Your Freedom Score puts a number on it — 60 seconds, free. See how you rank, then get a history moment like this in your brief every day.
Take the Free Assessment →