Long before Thanksgiving became a national holiday complete with televised parades and football games, it had humble beginnings in the early 17th century. In 1621, the Pilgrims, English settlers who founded Plymouth Colony in modern-day Massachusetts, celebrated an abundant harvest with a three-day gathering that was attended by Native Americans. This event, known as the 'First Thanksgiving,' was a communal celebration of gratitude, though it was not called 'Thanksgiving' at the time. However, the idea of a 'Thanksgiving' day goes beyond this singular event. Various colonies and communities had been observing days of prayer and gratitude long before 1621. These sporadic events eventually coalesced into the national holiday that Americans observe today. In 1863, during the Civil War, President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed a national Thanksgiving Day to be held each November. Over the years, Thanksgiving has evolved with new customs such as the annual Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, which began in 1924, and the Presidential turkey pardon, a tradition that began with President Harry Truman in 1947. Yet, at its heart, Thanksgiving remains a day for people to gather with family and friends, share a festive meal, and express gratitude for what they have. It also serves as a reminder to share our blessings with those less fortunate, a testament to the holiday's deeply-rooted ethos of community and sharing. Despite its popularity, Thanksgiving is not without controversy. Some Native American groups view the holiday as a reminder of the colonization and its devastating effects on indigenous peoples. Moreover, historians continue to debate the actual date of the First Thanksgiving. In conclusion, Thanksgiving is a holiday steeped in a rich history of traditions and cultural significance. It is a day of reflection, gratitude, and sharing, even as it continues to evolve in the face of changing societal perspectives.