Thanksgiving is a beloved holiday in the United States, celebrated with feasting, family gatherings, and expressions of gratitude. However, there has been ongoing debate and controversy surrounding the date on which Thanksgiving falls. While traditionally observed on the fourth Thursday of November, some argue that this date should be fixed to a specific day of the month. Let us delve into the arguments for and against the fluctuation of Thanksgiving Day.
The Controversy Surrounding the Date of Thanksgiving
The controversy surrounding the date of Thanksgiving stems from the historical origins of the holiday. Thanksgiving was originally celebrated on different dates by different states until President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed it a national holiday in 1863, designating the last Thursday of November as the official day. However, in 1939, President Franklin D. Roosevelt moved Thanksgiving up a week to boost retail sales during the Great Depression. This led to confusion and sparked a debate, ultimately resulting in Congress passing a law in 1941 fixing Thanksgiving to the fourth Thursday of November.
Despite the law fixing Thanksgiving to the fourth Thursday of November, there are still those who argue that the date should be set to a specific day of the month, such as the second Thursday. Proponents of this change argue that having a fixed date for Thanksgiving would provide more consistency and make it easier for people to plan their holiday celebrations. They believe that the fluctuation of Thanksgiving Day leads to confusion and can create logistical challenges for families trying to coordinate gatherings and travel plans.
Analyzing the Arguments for and Against Thanksgiving Day fluctuation
On the other hand, those who support the traditional fluctuation of Thanksgiving Day argue that it adds to the charm and uniqueness of the holiday. The changing date keeps Thanksgiving from becoming stagnant and allows for variety in when the holiday falls each year. Additionally, some argue that the fluctuation can be beneficial for businesses, as it spreads out the holiday shopping season and allows for more opportunities for sales and promotions.
In conclusion, the debate over what day Thanksgiving falls on is a complex issue with valid arguments on both sides. While some advocate for a fixed date to provide consistency and ease of planning, others appreciate the tradition and variability that comes with the fluctuation of Thanksgiving Day. Ultimately, the decision on whether to change the date of Thanksgiving will depend on weighing these arguments and considering the impact it would have on the holiday and its traditions.
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