Thanksgiving

 by Pierre Grange (level B2)

 

Do you know what Americans celebrate each 4th Thursday in November? Thanksgiving! 

But do you know the origin of Thanksgiving? And why eat a turkey? 

We have to go back to the 17th century, in 1620, with the "Pilgrim Fathers" who fled the regime of the Church of England and landed in America on their famous ship, The Mayflower.

But life was tough for the newcomers: famine, disease...

Fortunately, the local American Natives welcomed and taught them how to hunt, fish and cultivate the land. 

A year later, to thank these American Natives, the Pilgrim Fathers decreed three days of thanksgiving. 

This is in reference to the holiday celebrated in Europe to thank God for the happiness of the past year. 

The Pilgrim Fathers also invited the local American Natives who contributed to the feast and served them turkey.

 

The tradition has lasted until it was made official under the name "Thanksgiving Day" in 1789 by George Washington…

 

…then established by Abraham Lincoln in 1863 on the last Thursday of November.

 

By the way, do you know that nearly 50 million turkeys are eaten each year on Thanksgiving?

 

And history says that it was John F. Kennedy who decided in 1963 to save a turkey, out of compassion.

  

 He said: "We will let this one grow up".

 It is now two turkeys that are saved by the president each year.

And this Monday, Joe BIDEN saved two large white turkeys for the last time as president.

 

But all the other turkeys will be eaten, particularly with a pumpkin pie. 

Maybe you will respect the tradition? So...Bon appétit!