The First Thanksgiving (1621)

The First Thanksgiving in 1621 was a harvest celebration shared by the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag people in present-day Massachusetts. After a difficult first year, the Pilgrims celebrated their successful harvest with a feast that included locally available foods like corn, fish, and game. The Wampanoag played a key role in helping the Pilgrims survive by teaching them farming and fishing techniques. This event is often seen as a symbol of cooperation and gratitude, though it was not the foundational national holiday we recognize today. The feast lasted several days and reflected a moment of mutual aid and celebration.