Thankgiving Notes - Paul Roussos

Paul Roussos
1/25/13
Unit Two

Thanksgiving Rituals in the U.S.

History:

Traditions conducted by families across the United States are based all the way back in 1621 when there was a year of sickness and scarcity. Following the sickness, people were rewarded with a bountiful harvest of food. Pilgrims that came to America took the time to celebrate in the harvest by thanking God and celebrating in the bounty with traditions of feasting and recreational activities. The traditions celebrated by North Americans today are a blend of the New England customs of rejoicing after a successful harvest. It is also based upon the ancient English tradition of festivals coinciding with harvest combined with prayer and feasting.

Gender:

Roles of both males and females are clearly apparent in terms of traditions played out during Thanksgiving. Below is a list separated by gender of some activities conducted:

Males:

-Carving the Turkey

-Playing and watching football

-Sitting at the head of the table

Females:

-Shopping for ingredients

-Making party plans

- Cooking the turkey and side dishes

Socio- Economic Class:

Higher income citizens are indeed separate from the lower levels of income when it comes to the activities conducted during Thanksgiving. The more wealthy people may find it appropriate to go to a very luxurious party where the food is catered to them. However the lower income people may find it appropriate to cook and serve the food in the comfort of their own homes with friends and family. No matter the income of one family there is a still a need to party and feast while conducting in recreational activities.

Generation:

Different generations act accordingly and are treated with different levels of respect on Thanksgiving Day. The elders and grandparents are treated with the most respect as they converse with younger generations. Elders can be seen at the head of the table during the eating played out by family. Younger generation on the other hand can be seen sometimes at a separate “kids table” if there is a large amount of people. These children also have the least amount of privileges being that they can’t drink or sit at the head of the table during dinner time.

Ethnic/Family:

Different families may have different traditions played out during thanksgiving. Not everyone will be sitting down at their family dinner table during thanksgiving. Some families may agree to go out and eat at a restaurant instead of cooking meals themselves. Other families however cherish the time spent in their own homes with relatives during thanksgiving time and spend their time eating and recreating at home.