ALT-2 Top Thanksgiving Myths and Legends
As one of the most loved and eagerly expected American holidays, it comes as no surprise that Thanksgiving has spawned over the years quite a few myths and legends that are still being perpetuated. And while these make for great conversation during the dinner, it’s good to be aware of which statements are facts, and which ones belong in the realm of myth.
Below are the top Thanksgiving myths and legends:
1. The first Thanksgiving took place in 1621.
Centuries ago, it was common for many indigenous people to celebrate and show their gratitude to God for harvest, military conquests etc. However, these old festivals occurred several times a year whenever the people felt they had to thank God for a great achievement. The beginning of the yearly tradition that is celebrated today was due to the discovery a letter in the 1800s that described one of the Pilgrims’ celebrations atPlimoth Plantation, in 1621. Therefore, the first Thanksgiving as we know it actually took place in the 19th century.
2. Eating turkey will make you feel sleepy.
This is an urban legend based on the fact that turkey meat contains a substance called tryptophan that allows the brain to create serotonin, which has a calming effect. While turkey does indeed contain tryptophan, the amount is negligible; therefore, it cannot induce a state of drowsiness. If you find yourself feeling sleepy after Thanksgiving dinner, it’s likely due to the whole commotion of preparing everything for this special occasion, coupled with the effect of having a huge intake of calories.
3. The tradition of eating turkey was started by the Pilgrims.
While the Pilgrims had turkey and liked to eat it, it’s unknown what exactly they had on Thanksgiving. It’s aknown factthat they had venison and a variety of wild fowl, but on the other hand, they lacked many of the foods that are a tradition nowadays, such as apples, cranberries, potatoes or pears. Today’s traditions were passed down from the Victorians, who preferred to prepare turkey accompanied by other dishes, which later became a staple in American culture.
4. Thanksgiving was in the past, as it is today, a family celebration.
This myth couldn’t be further from the truth; the old harvest festivals were actually events that involved the whole community, which was made up of various cultures. To support this statement, it’s worth noting that even the Indians were invited to the celebration.
5. Pilgrims wore black-and-white outfits for Thanksgiving.
The common depiction of Pilgrims wearing black-and-white outfits and having buckles on their hats and shoes is actually quite different from the way they really dressed. For starters, buckles didn’t even exist at the time; they only appeared in their more modern design sometime during the 17th century. And Pilgrims actually wore clothes in earth tone colors; black and white were only worn at celebrations.
Though you may have been familiar with some of the above myths and legends, while some of them may be entirely new to you, it’s important to know the real facts about Thanksgiving Day. a tradition so close to the heart of Americans.
