December 21 in American History

December 21, 1620 — the Pilgrims land at Plymouth

The Mayflower's passengers came ashore at Plymouth, Massachusetts, to build a colony in a hard new land — nearly half would not survive the first winter. Their endurance, and the help of the Wampanoag, became the origin story Americans retell every Thanksgiving. Forefathers' Day still marks the landing.

Common Questions About December 21

What happened on December 21 in American history?

In 1620: the Pilgrims land at Plymouth. The Mayflower's passengers came ashore at Plymouth, Massachusetts, to build a colony in a hard new land — nearly half would not survive the first winter.

Why is December 21 significant?

The Mayflower's passengers came ashore at Plymouth, Massachusetts, to build a colony in a hard new land — nearly half would not survive the first winter. Their endurance, and the help of the Wampanoag, became the origin story Americans retell every Thanksgiving. Forefathers' Day still marks the landing.

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