Episode 25

What is Thanksgiving?

In America, Thanksgiving is comparable to Christmas on the holiday calendar. It’s when everyone gets together with turkey, football, and the Macy’s parade to be thankful for what they have. But where did this holiday really come from? In this episode we explore the history and the real meaning of America’s favourite holiday as we answer… what is Thanksgiving?

Our guest this week is David Silverman, a Professor of history a George Washington University. He specializes in Native American, Colonial American, and American racial history, and his most recent book is This Land is Their Land: The Wampanoag Indians, Plymouth Colony, and the Troubled History of Thanksgiving.

Additional reources:

BOOK: This Land Is Their Land: The Wampanoag Indians, Plymouth Colony, and the Troubled History of Thanksgiving by David J. Silverman

If you love this episode, you might also enjoy:

Why Do Americans Love Halloween?

What is Thanksgiving?

What's the History of Christmas in America?

SUPPORT THE SHOW

Individual Supporters: https://america-a-history.captivate.fm/support

University Partners: https://america-a-history.captivate.fm/partnerships

Brand Sponsors: liam@mercurypodcasts.com

Contact us: america@podcastsbyliam.com

Are you a University or college? Become an academic partner and your name will appear right here.

Mentioned in this episode:

Be on the Show!

What would you put in a US time capsule? We're creating a virtual one on the podcast very soon, and we want to hear from you. Visit https://www.speakpipe.com/AmericaAHistory right now to record your contribution... and you might just make it on the show.

This episode is brought to you by Fletchy's Debut EP Tha Colossal Apostle

So much of America's cultural history, specifically the African American and black experience, has been defined and shaped by music, which is why you should check out the phenomenal new EP from Fletchy. His debut record is personal and powerful. I listened from start to finish, and I'm not your typical rap fan! Listen to Tha Colossal Apostle right now.

Ad - Fletchy

Be on the Show!

What would you put in a US time capsule? We're creating a virtual one on the podcast very soon, and we want to hear from you. Visit https://www.speakpipe.com/AmericaAHistory right now to record your contribution... and you might just make it on the show.

About the Podcast

Show artwork for America: A History
America: A History
Your Ultimate Guide to US History

About your host

Profile picture for Liam Heffernan

Liam Heffernan

Liam's fascination with America grows year on year. Having graduated with a Masters in American Studies with Film, he loves pop culture and has been to Vegas four times which, in his opinion, is not enough.