Question

Read the text below.

Thanksgiving Day (USA)

Thanksgiving Day origin dates back in the 16th century when the first Thanksgiving dinner took place.

According to historians, a sailing vessel called Mayflower crossed the Atlantic carrying about 102 pil-
grims. The journey was arduous because of terrible storms in the sea. The passengers comforted them-
selves by singing.

After 66 days, they arrived in Plymouth and could not proceed to their initial intended destination, Virgi-
nia because of bad weather. In fact, about 46 pilgrims died in the cold winter. The survivors learned how

to grow food from Squanto, a native Indian. However, a severe drought followed and the pilgrims dedi-
cated themselves to fasting and praying to ask God for a bountiful harvest. Their prayers were answered

by rains that grew their corn, beans and pumpkins.
In the autumn of 1621, Governor William Bradford organized a 3-day feast to thank God for his favors.
Although there is no evidence provided, it is believed that this was the first Thanksgiving Day by the
Pilgrims. In the following years, such events became quite common and were celebrated every year.
On October 3, 1789, the first president of the United States, George Washington proclaimed the day of
thanksgiving. The day was later declared a public holiday in 1863 by the then President Abraham Lincoln.
Americans observe Thanksgiving Day on the fourth Thursday of November every year. The day is usually

preceded by the Black Friday. This makes an ideal time to start Christmas shopping. Why is Thanksgi-
ving in November?

Thanksgiving Day falls on the first Thursday in the month of November. The day has been celebrated in

November ever since the observance of this holiday began. In 1863 President Abraham Lincoln proclai-
med for the day to be celebrated on the last Thursday of November. In 1939, President Roosevelt moved

the day to the third Thursday of the month with intentions of prolonging the Christmas shopping season.
Finally, the Congress passed it as law for the day to be observed on the fourth Thursday of November.
Turkey is the most common food served during the Thanksgiving Dinner. For this reason, Thanksgiving
Day is also called the Turkey Day. American farmers raise millions of turkeys every year in preparation
of the Thanksgiving Holiday. Other common meals on this day include potatoes, pumpkin pie, cranberry
sauce and an assortment of vegetables. Why Thanksgiving is celebrated?
It is a day to thank God for a bountiful harvest in the preceding year. The day also appreciates the labor
of all Americans in their various income generating activities and achievements as a nation. Families
and friends meet to share and celebrate their milestones as well as their accomplishments.
The day is often full of pomp and color. It is a great time to exchange gifts with your loved ones and
share beautiful Thanksgiving messages. If you would like to please your family and friends, get a special
Thanksgiving menu and Turkey, potatoes and a variety of vegetables. If you are looking to travel out

101
of town, you can attend Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade in New York City and enjoy lively performances.
Usually, the parades mark the official opening of Christmas shopping.
Adapted text.



8 – Qual é o significado do Dia de Ação de Graças para os norte-americanos, de acordo com o texto?

Answer 1

Resposta:

and my good turu people with you