Why Do Americans Celebrate Thanksgiving? | B2 English Reading
What is Thanksgiving Really About?
Thanksgiving is more than just a holiday—it’s a beautiful blend of history, gratitude, and togetherness. It’s a time when families come together over delicious meals, share stories, and reflect on what they’re thankful for.
Have you ever wondered where this cherished American tradition began and what it represents for American families?
In this post, we’ll uncover the fascinating history of Thanksgiving, explore its heartwarming traditions, and learn ways to express gratitude in English.
Plus, we’ll share some thought-provoking questions to inspire your own reflections this holiday season.
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The Origins of Thanksgiving
The first Thanksgiving took place in Plymouth, Massachusetts, in 1621, when Pilgrims and Native Americans shared a feast to celebrate their cooperation and a successful harvest.
The Pilgrims were a group of English settlers who traveled to the New World in search of religious freedom. They arrived on a ship called the Mayflower, landing at Plymouth Rock in 1620. The Wampanoag people, who were native to the land, helped many of the Pilgrims survive. They taught them important skills, like how to hunt, fish, and grow crops in their new environment.
After their first successful harvest in 1621, the Pilgrims invited the Wampanoag leader, Massasoit, and 90 members of the tribe to join a three-day feast. This event was held to give thanks for the productive season. However, the food at this feast was likely very different from the Thanksgiving meals we enjoy today. There may not have been turkey, but the menu likely included wild meat like duck, goose, or deer, along with corn, squash, beans, nuts, and seafood. The gathering was about more than just food—it was a celebration of unity and friendship between two different cultures coming together.
However, it’s also important to think about what Thanksgiving represents for Native Americans today. While some celebrate the day with gratitude, others see it as a reminder of the injustices their ancestors faced after European colonization. Some Native communities mark this day as the National Day of Mourning, using it as a time to reflect and honor their history and culture.
Thanksgiving Traditions
Thanksgiving is one of the most important family traditions in the United States. Families usually gather at a relative’s home to celebrate together. It’s common to organize a potluck, where each person brings a dish to share. This helps divide the work so the host doesn’t have to prepare everything alone.
A typical Thanksgiving feast includes turkey, ham, stuffing, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, sweet potato casserole, and pumpkin pie. However, there are many other traditional dishes you might find on a Thanksgiving menu, depending on the family’s preferences and regional traditions.
During the celebration, families take time to reflect on their lives and express gratitude. It’s a common tradition for each person at the table to share something they are thankful for. This moment of reflection is one of the most meaningful parts of the holiday.
Gratitude Expressions
Many people know how to say “thank you” or “thanks,” but there are many ways to express your gratitude in English, so let’s look at some examples!
Count your blessings: To appreciate the good things in your life.
Thank your lucky stars: To feel thankful for good fortune.
Gratitude is the best attitude: A reminder that being thankful is a positive outlook on life.
Give and you shall receive: When you give to others, you often get something in return
Alternative ways of saying thank you or thanks!
Thank you so much!
I really appreciate it.
I’m so grateful for...
You’re a lifesaver!
Thanks a million!
Cheers!
I owe you one.
Conversation Questions for Reflection
Giving thanks is an important habit that can help you develop a more positive perspective on life. Let’s take a moment to reflect on our blessings and share them together as a way to celebrate this Thanksgiving season.
What are you thankful for in your life and why?
Can you think of a time when someone did something small for you that made a big impact? How did it make you feel?
What big or small win are you thankful for achieving this year?
In what ways can we show appreciation to people in our lives?
How do you think gratitude can improve your relationships with others?
What is one thing you learned this year that you are thankful for?
How can we cultivate a habit of gratitude every day, not just during Thanksgiving?
What is a way to practice gratitude that you could introduce into your routine this year?
Want to Learn More about Thanksgiving?
Watch my podcast episode to learn more about how Americans celebrate Thanksgiving and how to make gratitude a part of your life.
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