Category: History > Thanksgiving
During the American Civil War, one of the most unusual yet poignant celebrations took place on Thanksgiving Day, which was promoted by President Abraham Lincoln in 1863. At the height of the conflict, Lincoln proclaimed a national day of "Thanksgiving and Praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the Heavens," to be celebrated on the last Thursday of November. This was a remarkable move, as it came during a time of profound national strife, with many families torn apart by the war. The proclamation aimed to foster a sense of unity and gratitude among the divided populace, encouraging Americans to come together in a spirit of hope and reflection despite the ongoing battles. This Thanksgiving tradition has endured and evolved, becoming a significant annual holiday in the United States, symbolizing resilience and the importance of community even in the darkest of times.