Thanksgiving is one of the biggest holidays in America; however, this holiday is unique to Americans because we are the only country that celebrates it. The origin of Thanksgiving can be traced back to the early colonial days of America when the pilgrims arrived. One of the reasons people traveled from Europe to America was to escape religious persecution, and to find a new place of worship. The pilgrims fell into that category. When the pilgrims arrived in Plymouth, Massachusetts they struggled to survive until they met and developed a friendly relationship with the Native Americans in the area. Sadly, this is one of the very few examples of companionship between the Native Americans and colonists. The Native Americans helped the colonist by teaching them how to farm the land, fish and other useful tips. The day of Thanksgiving refers to the harvest celebration that the Native Americans and colonist shared after they successfully harvested their first corn crop that season. The pilgrims had plenty to be thankful for due to the Native Americans’ kindness. Everyone has something to be thankful for, and Thanksgiving is the perfect opportunity to express it.
The English Language Institute (ELI) is hosting a Thanksgiving festival here at Continuing Education with Georgia Southwestern’s ELI students on November 18th from 10am-2pm. Don’t miss this opportunity to meet new people and experience what America’s Thanksgiving holiday has to offer. You’ll learn more about the history of Thanksgiving, and also watch a movie clip from This is America Charlie Brown: The Mayflower Voyagers. Afterwards, you’ll play Thanksgiving Day themed games with pumpkins, feathers, and other funny items. Be prepared to experience a delicious traditional banquet made from the family recipes of your instructors and staff. This exciting event will have you leaving Continued Education as stuffed as a turkey! For more information on Thanksgiving at Continuing Education’s ELI talk to Cindy Cook.
Visit this site for a closer look at the History of Thanksgiving Day:
http://www.history.com/topics/thanksgiving
-Kindra Hunter
“Thanksgiving — History.com Articles, Video, Pictures and Facts.” History.com — History Made Every Day — American & World History. Web. 08 Nov. 2011. <http://www.history.com/topics/thanksgiving>.
