United Colonies of North America
Fast Day Proclamation
President John Hancock
Fast Day Proclamation
March 16, 1776
United Colonies Continental Congress
May 25, 1775 to July 1, 1776Fast Day Proclamation
March 16, 1776
In times of impending calamity and distress; when the liberties of America are imminently endangered by the secret machinations and open assaults of an insidious and vindictive administration, it becomes the indispensable duty of these hitherto free and happy colonies, with true penitence of heart, and the most reverent devotion, publickly to acknowledge the over ruling providence of God; to confess and deplore our offences against him; and to supplicate his interposition for averting the threatened danger, and prospering our strenuous efforts in the cause of freedom, virtue, and posterity.
The Congress, therefore, considering the warlike preparations of the British Ministry to subvert our invaluable rights and priviledges, and to reduce us by fire and sword, by the savages of the wilderness, and our own domestics, to the most abject and ignominious bondage: Desirous, at the same time, to have people of all ranks and degrees duly impressed with a solemn sense of God's superintending providence, and of their duty, devoutly to rely, in all their lawful enterprizes, on his aid and direction, Do earnestly recommend, that Friday, the Seventeenth day of May next, be observed by the said colonies as a day of humiliation, fasting, and prayer; that we may, with united hearts, confess and bewail our manifold sins and transgressions, and, by a sincere repentance and amendment of life, appease his righteous displeasure, and, through the merits and mediation of Jesus Christ, obtain his pardon and forgiveness; humbly imploring his assistance to frustrate the cruel purposes of our unnatural enemies; and by inclining their hearts to justice and benevolence, prevent the further effusion of kindred blood. But if, continuing deaf to the voice of reason and humanity, and inflexibly bent, on desolation and war, they constrain us to repel their hostile invasions by open resistance, that it may please the Lord of Hosts, the God of Armies, to animate our officers and soldiers with invincible fortitude, to guard and protect them in the day of battle, and to crown the continental arms, by sea and land, with victory and success: Earnestly beseeching him to bless our civil rulers, and the representatives of the people, in their several assemblies and conventions; to preserve and strengthen their union, to inspire them with an ardent, disinterested love of their country; to give wisdom and stability to their counsels; and direct them to the most efficacious measures for establishing the rights of America on the most honourable and permanent basis--That he would be graciously pleased to bless all his people in these colonies with health and plenty, and grant that a spirit of incorruptible patriotism, and of pure undefiled religion, may universally prevail; and this continent be speedily restored to the blessings of peace and liberty, and enabled to transmit them inviolate to the latest posterity. And it is recommended to Christians of all denominations, to assemble for public worship, and abstain from servile labour on the said day. John Hancock, President of Congress and Charles Thomson, Secretary.
United States of America
Continental Congress Presidential Proclamations
November 1, 1777 to December 9, 1778
Thanksgiving Proclamation
Forasmuch as it is the indispensable duty of all men to adore the superintending providence of Almighty God; to acknowledge with gratitude their obligation to him for benefits received, and to implore such farther blessings as they stand in need of; and it having pleased him in his abundant mercy not only to continue to us the innumerable bounties of his common providence, but also to smile upon us in the prosecution of a just and necessary war, for the defence and establishment of our unalienable rights and liberties; particularly in that he hath been pleased in so great a measure to prosper the means used for the support of our troops and to crown our arms with most signal success: It is therefore recommended to the legislative or executive powers of these United States, to set apart Thursday, the eighteenth day of December next, for solemn thanksgiving and praise; that with one heart1 and one voice the good people may express the grateful feelings of their hearts, and consecrate themselves to the service of their divine benefactor; and that together with their sincere acknowledgments and offerings, they may join the penitent confession of their manifold sins, whereby they had forfeited every favour, and their humble and earnest supplication that it may please God, through the merits of Jesus Christ, mercifully to forgive and blot them out of remembrance; that it may please him graciously to afford his blessing on the governments of these states respectively, and prosper the public council of the whole; to inspire our commanders both by land and sea, and all under them, with that wisdom and fortitude which may render them fit instruments, under the providence of Almighty God, to secure for these United States the greatest of all human blessings, independence and peace; that it may please him to prosper the trade and manufactures of the people and the labour of the husbandman, that our land may yet yield its increase; to take schools and seminaries of education, so necessary for cultivating the principles of true liberty, virtue and piety, under his nurturing hand, and to prosper the means of religion for the promotion and enlargement of that kingdom which consisteth "in righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Ghost." Henry Laurens, President of Congress and Charles Thomson, Secretary.
United States Continental Congress
December 10, 1778 to September 29, 1779
Thanksgiving Proclamation
.jpg "John Jay Fast Day Proclamation")
March 20th, 1779
Whereas, in just punishment of our manifold transgressions, it hath pleased the Supreme Disposer of all events to visit these United States with a destructive calamitous war, through which His divine Providence hath, hitherto, in a wonderful manner, conducted us, so that we might acknowledge that the race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong: and whereas, there is but too much Reason to fear that notwithstanding the chastisements received and benefits bestowed, too few have been sufficiently awakened to a sense of their guilt, or warmed our Bosoms with gratitude, or taught to amend their lives and turn from their sins, that so He might turn from His wrath. And whereas, from a consciousness of what we have merited at His hands, and an apprehension that the malevolence of our disappointed enemies, like the incredulity of Pharaoh, may be used as the scourge of Omnipotence to vindicate his slighted Majesty, there is reason to fear that he may permit much of our land to become the prey of the spoiler, and the Blood of the innocent be poured out that our borders to be ravaged, and our habitations destroyed:
Resolved, That it be recommended to the several states to appoint the first Thursday in May next, to be a day of fasting, Thanksgiving humiliation and prayer to Almighty God, that he will be pleased to avert those impending calamities which we have but too well deserved: that he will grant us his grace to repent of our sins, and amend our lives, according to his holy word: that he will continue that wonderful protection which hath led us through the paths of danger and distress: that he will be a husband to the widow and a father to the fatherless children, who weep over the barbarities of a savage enemy: that he will grant us patience in suffering, and fortitude in adversity: that he will inspire us with humility and moderation, and gratitude in prosperous circumstances: that he will give wisdom to our councils, firmness to our resolutions, and victory to our arms That he will have Mercy on our Foes, and graciously forgive them, and turn their Hearts from Enmity to Love.
That he will bless the labours of the husbandman, and pour forth abundance, so that we may enjoy the fruits of the earth in due season. That he will cause union, harmony, and mutual confidence to prevail throughout these states: that he will bestow on our great ally all those blessings which may enable him to be gloriously instrumental in protecting the rights of mankind, and promoting the happiness of his subjects and advancing the Peace and Liberty of Nations. That he will give to both Parties to this Alliance, Grace to perform with Honor and Fidelity their National Engagements.
That he will bountifully continue his paternal care to the commander in chief, and the officers and soldiers of the United States: that he will grant the blessings of peace to all contending nations, freedom to those who are in bondage, and comfort to the afflicted: that he will diffuse useful knowledge, extend the influence of true religion, and give us that peace of mind, which the world cannot give: that he will be our shield in the day of battle, our comforter in the hour of death, and our kind parent and merciful judge through time and through eternity. John Jay, President of Congress and Charles Thomson, Secretary.
 |
United States in Congress Assembled
March 1, 1781 to July 6, 1781
Presidential Proclamation
Day of Fasting, Humiliation, and Prayer
Saturday, March 11, 1780
It having pleased the righteous Governor of the world, for the
punishment of our manifold offences, to permit the sword of war still to harass
our country, it becomes us to endeavor, by humbling ourselves before him and
turning from every evil way, to avert his anger and obtain his favor and
blessing: it is, therefore, recommended to the several States
That Wednesday, the twenty-sixth day of April next, be set apart
and observed as a day of fasting, humiliation, and prayer, that we may with one
heart and one voice implore the sovereign Lord of heaven and earth to remember
mercy in his judgments; to make us sincerely penitent for our transgressions;
to prepare us for deliverance, and to remove the evil with which he hath been
pleased to visit us; to banish vice and irreligion from among us, and establish
virtue and piety by his Divine grace; to bless all public councils throughout
the United States, giving them wisdom, firmness, and unanimity and directing
them to the best measures for the public good; to bless the magistrates and
people of every rank, and animate and unite the hearts of all to promote the
interests of their country; to bless the public defence, inspiring all commanders
and soldiers with magnanimity and perseverance, and giving vigor and success to
the military operations by sea and land; to bless the illustrious sovereign and
the nation in alliance with these States, and all who interest themselves in
support of our rights and liberties; to make that alliance of extensive and
perpetual usefulness to those immediately concerned, and mankind in general; to
grant fruitful seasons, and to bless our industry, trade and manufactures; to
bless all schools and seminaries of learning, and every means of instruction
and education; to make wars to cease, and to establish peace among the nations.
And it is further recommended that servile labour and
recreations he forbidden on the said day.
Done in Congress, the Eleventh day of March, in the year of our
Lord one thousand seven hundred and eighty, and in the fourth year of our
Independence.
SAM. HUNTINGTON, President.
Attest, CHA. THOMSON, Secretary.
USCA President Proclamations
Articles of Confederation Presidents
Fast Day Proclamation
March 20, 1781
In times of calamity and impending danger when a vindictive enemy pursues with unrelenting fury a war of rapine and devastation to reduce us by fire and sword, by the savages of the wilderness and our own domestics to the most abject and ignominious bondage; it becomes the indispensable duty of the citizens of these United States with true penitence of heart publicly to acknowledge the over ruling Providence of God, to confess our offences against him, and to supplicate his gracious interposition for averting the threatened danger and preparing our efforts in the defence and preservation of our injured country.
At all times it is our duty to acknowledge the over-ruling providence of the great Governor of the universe, and devoutly to implore his divine favour and protection. But in the hour of calamity and impending danger, when by fire and the sword, by the savages of the wilderness, and by our own domestics, a vindictive enemy pursues a war of rapine and devastation, with unrelenting fury, we are peculiarly excited, with true penitence of heart, to prostrate ourselves before our great Creator, and fervently to supplicate his gracious interposition for our deliverance.
The United States in Congress assembled, therefore do earnestly recommend, that Thursday the third day of May next, may be observed as a day of humiliation, fasting and prayer, that we may, with united hearts, confess and bewail our manifold sins and transgressions, and by sincere repentance and amendment of life, appease his righteous displeasure, and through the merits of our blessed Saviour, obtain pardon and forgiveness: that it may please him to inspire our rulers with wisdom and uncorruptible integrity, and to direct and prosper their councils: to inspire all our citizens with a fervent and disinterested love of their country, and to preserve and strengthen their union: to turn the hearts of the disaffected, or to frustrate their devices: to regard with divine compassion our friends in captivity, affliction and distress, to comfort and relieve them under their sufferings, and to change their mourning into grateful songs of triumph: that it may please him to bless our ally, and to render the connection formed between these United States and his kingdoms a mutual and lasting benefit to both nations: to animate our officers and forces by sea and land with invincible fortitude, and to guard and protect them in the day of battle, and to crown our joint endeavours for terminating the calamities of war with victory and success: that the blessings of peace and liberty may be established on an honourable and permanent basis, and transmitted inviolate to the latest posterity: that it may please him to prosper our husbandry and commerce, and to bless us with health and plenty: that it may please him to bless all schools and seminaries of learning, and to grant that truth, justice and benevolence, and pure and undefiled religion, may universally prevail. And it is recommended to all the people of these states, to assemble for public worship, and abstain from labour on the said day. Samuel Huntington, President of the United States in Congress Assembled. Charles Thomson, Secretary of the United States in Congress Assembled
At all times it is our duty to acknowledge the over-ruling providence of the great Governor of the universe, and devoutly to implore his divine favour and protection. But in the hour of calamity and impending danger, when by fire and the sword, by the savages of the wilderness, and by our own domestics, a vindictive enemy pursues a war of rapine and devastation, with unrelenting fury, we are peculiarly excited, with true penitence of heart, to prostrate ourselves before our great Creator, and fervently to supplicate his gracious interposition for our deliverance.
The United States in Congress assembled, therefore do earnestly recommend, that Thursday the third day of May next, may be observed as a day of humiliation, fasting and prayer, that we may, with united hearts, confess and bewail our manifold sins and transgressions, and by sincere repentance and amendment of life, appease his righteous displeasure, and through the merits of our blessed Saviour, obtain pardon and forgiveness: that it may please him to inspire our rulers with wisdom and uncorruptible integrity, and to direct and prosper their councils: to inspire all our citizens with a fervent and disinterested love of their country, and to preserve and strengthen their union: to turn the hearts of the disaffected, or to frustrate their devices: to regard with divine compassion our friends in captivity, affliction and distress, to comfort and relieve them under their sufferings, and to change their mourning into grateful songs of triumph: that it may please him to bless our ally, and to render the connection formed between these United States and his kingdoms a mutual and lasting benefit to both nations: to animate our officers and forces by sea and land with invincible fortitude, and to guard and protect them in the day of battle, and to crown our joint endeavours for terminating the calamities of war with victory and success: that the blessings of peace and liberty may be established on an honourable and permanent basis, and transmitted inviolate to the latest posterity: that it may please him to prosper our husbandry and commerce, and to bless us with health and plenty: that it may please him to bless all schools and seminaries of learning, and to grant that truth, justice and benevolence, and pure and undefiled religion, may universally prevail. And it is recommended to all the people of these states, to assemble for public worship, and abstain from labour on the said day. Samuel Huntington, President of the United States in Congress Assembled. Charles Thomson, Secretary of the United States in Congress Assembled
 |
United States in Congress Assembled
July 10, 1781 to November 5, 1781
Thanksgiving Proclamation
October 26th, 1781
Whereas, it hath pleased Almighty God, the supreme Disposer of all Events father of mercies, remarkably to assist and support the United States of America in their important struggle for liberty, against the long continued efforts of a powerful nation: it is the duty of all ranks to observe and thankfully acknowledge the interpositions of his Providence in their behalf. Through the whole of the contest, from its first rise to this time, the influence of divine Providence may be clearly perceived in many signal instances, of which we mention but a few.
In revealing the councils of our enemies, when the discoveries were seasonable and important, and the means seemingly inadequate or fortuitous; in preserving and even improving the union of the several states, on the breach of which our enemies placed their greatest dependence; in increasing the number, and adding to the zeal and attachment of the friends of Liberty; in granting remarkable deliverances, and blessing us with the most signal success, when affairs seemed to have the most discouraging appearance; in raising up for us a powerful and generous ally, in one of the first of the European powers; in confounding the councils of our enemies, and suffering them to pursue such measures as have most directly contributed to frustrate their own desires and expectations; above all, in making their extreme cruelty of their officers and soldiers to the inhabitants of these states, when in their power, and their savage devastation of property, the very means of cementing our union, and adding vigor to every effort in opposition to them.
And as we cannot help leading the good people of these states to a retrospect on the events which have taken place since the beginning of the war, so we beg recommend in a particular manner that they may observe and acknowledge to their observation, the goodness of God in the year now drawing to a conclusion: in which A mutiny in the American Army was not only happily appeased but became in its issue a pleasing and undeniable proof of the unalterable attachment of the people in general to the cause of liberty since great and real grievances only made them tumultuously seek redress while the abhorred the thoughts of going over to the enemy, in which the Confederation of the United States has been completed by the accession of all without exception in which there have been so many instances of prowess and success in our armies; particularly in the southern states, where, notwithstanding the difficulties with which they had to struggle, they have recovered the whole country which the enemy had overrun, leaving them only a post or two upon on or near the sea: in which we have been so powerfully and effectually assisted by our allies, while in all the conjunct operations the mostperfect union and harmony has subsisted in the allied army: in which there has been so plentiful a harvest, and so great abundance of the fruits of the earth of every kind, as not only enables us easily to supply the wants of the army, but gives comfort and happiness to the whole people: and in which, after the success of our allies by sea, a General of the first Rank, with his whole army, has been captured by the allied forces under the direction of our illustrious Commander in Chief.
It is therefore recommended to the several states to set apart the 13th day of December next, to be religiously observed as a Day of Thanksgiving and Prayer; that all the people may assemble on that day, with grateful hearts, to celebrate the praises of our gracious Benefactor; to confess our manifold sins; to offer up our most fervent supplications to the God of all grace, that it may please Him to pardon our offences, and incline our hearts for the future to keep all his laws; to comfort and relieve all our brethren who are in distress or captivity; to prosper our husbandmen, and give success to all engaged in lawful commerce; to impart wisdom and integrity to our counsellors, judgment and fortitude to our officers and soldiers; to protect and prosper our illustrious ally, and favor our united exertions for the speedy establishment of a safe, honorable and lasting peace; to bless all seminaries of learning; and cause the knowledge of God to cover the earth, as the waters cover the seas. By Order of the United States in Congress Assembled -- Thomas McKean, President
In revealing the councils of our enemies, when the discoveries were seasonable and important, and the means seemingly inadequate or fortuitous; in preserving and even improving the union of the several states, on the breach of which our enemies placed their greatest dependence; in increasing the number, and adding to the zeal and attachment of the friends of Liberty; in granting remarkable deliverances, and blessing us with the most signal success, when affairs seemed to have the most discouraging appearance; in raising up for us a powerful and generous ally, in one of the first of the European powers; in confounding the councils of our enemies, and suffering them to pursue such measures as have most directly contributed to frustrate their own desires and expectations; above all, in making their extreme cruelty of their officers and soldiers to the inhabitants of these states, when in their power, and their savage devastation of property, the very means of cementing our union, and adding vigor to every effort in opposition to them.
And as we cannot help leading the good people of these states to a retrospect on the events which have taken place since the beginning of the war, so we beg recommend in a particular manner that they may observe and acknowledge to their observation, the goodness of God in the year now drawing to a conclusion: in which A mutiny in the American Army was not only happily appeased but became in its issue a pleasing and undeniable proof of the unalterable attachment of the people in general to the cause of liberty since great and real grievances only made them tumultuously seek redress while the abhorred the thoughts of going over to the enemy, in which the Confederation of the United States has been completed by the accession of all without exception in which there have been so many instances of prowess and success in our armies; particularly in the southern states, where, notwithstanding the difficulties with which they had to struggle, they have recovered the whole country which the enemy had overrun, leaving them only a post or two upon on or near the sea: in which we have been so powerfully and effectually assisted by our allies, while in all the conjunct operations the mostperfect union and harmony has subsisted in the allied army: in which there has been so plentiful a harvest, and so great abundance of the fruits of the earth of every kind, as not only enables us easily to supply the wants of the army, but gives comfort and happiness to the whole people: and in which, after the success of our allies by sea, a General of the first Rank, with his whole army, has been captured by the allied forces under the direction of our illustrious Commander in Chief.
It is therefore recommended to the several states to set apart the 13th day of December next, to be religiously observed as a Day of Thanksgiving and Prayer; that all the people may assemble on that day, with grateful hearts, to celebrate the praises of our gracious Benefactor; to confess our manifold sins; to offer up our most fervent supplications to the God of all grace, that it may please Him to pardon our offences, and incline our hearts for the future to keep all his laws; to comfort and relieve all our brethren who are in distress or captivity; to prosper our husbandmen, and give success to all engaged in lawful commerce; to impart wisdom and integrity to our counsellors, judgment and fortitude to our officers and soldiers; to protect and prosper our illustrious ally, and favor our united exertions for the speedy establishment of a safe, honorable and lasting peace; to bless all seminaries of learning; and cause the knowledge of God to cover the earth, as the waters cover the seas. By Order of the United States in Congress Assembled -- Thomas McKean, President
Click Here to view the US Mint & Coin Acts 1782-1792
United States in Congress Assembled
November 5, 1781 to November 4, 1782
Fast Day Proclamation
March 19, 1782
The goodness of the Supreme Being to all his rational creatures, demands their acknowledgments of gratitude and love; his absolute government of this world dictates, that it is the interest of every nation and people ardently to supplicate his mercy favor and implore his protection.
When the lust of dominion or lawless ambition excites arbitrary power to invade the rights, or endeavor to wrench wrest from a people their sacred and unalienable invaluable privileges, and compels them, in defence of the same, to encounter all the horrors and calamities of a bloody and vindictive war; then is that people loudly called upon to fly unto that God for protection, who hears the eries of the distressed, and will not turn a deaf ear to the supplication of the oppressed.
Great Britain, hitherto left to infatuated councils, and to pursue measures repugnant to their her own interest, and distressing to this country, still persists in the chimerical idea design of subjugating these United States; which will compel us into another active and perhaps bloody campaign.
The United States in Congress assembled, therefore, taking into consideration our present situation, our multiplied transgressions of the holy laws of our God, and his past acts of kindness and goodness exercised towards us, which we would ought to record with the liveliest gratitude, think it their indispensable duty to call upon the different several states, to set apart the last Thursday in April next, as a day of fasting, humiliation and prayer, that our joint supplications may then ascend to the throne of the Ruler of the Universe, beseeching Him that he would to diffuse a spirit of universal reformation among all ranks and degrees of our citizens; and make us a holy, that so we may be an happy people; that it would please Him to impart wisdom, integrity and unanimity to our counsellors; to bless and prosper the reign of our illustrious ally, and give success to his arms employed in the defence of the rights of human nature; that He would smile upon our military arrangements by land and sea; administer comfort and consolation to our prisoners in a cruel captivity; that he would protect the health and life of our Commander in Chief; give grant us victory over our enemies; establish peace in all our borders, and give happiness to all our inhabitants; that he would prosper the labor of the husbandman, making the earth yield its increase in abundance, and give a proper season for the in gathering of the fruits thereof; that He would grant success to all engaged in lawful trade and commerce, and take under his guardianship all schools and seminaries of learning, and make them nurseries of virtue and piety; that He would incline the hearts of all men to peace, and fill them with universal charity and benevolence, and that the religion of our Divine Redeemer, with all its benign influences, may cover the earth as the waters cover the seas. John Hanson, President of the United States in Congress Assembled. Charles Thomson, Secretary of the United States in Congress Assembled
When the lust of dominion or lawless ambition excites arbitrary power to invade the rights, or endeavor to wrench wrest from a people their sacred and unalienable invaluable privileges, and compels them, in defence of the same, to encounter all the horrors and calamities of a bloody and vindictive war; then is that people loudly called upon to fly unto that God for protection, who hears the eries of the distressed, and will not turn a deaf ear to the supplication of the oppressed.
Great Britain, hitherto left to infatuated councils, and to pursue measures repugnant to their her own interest, and distressing to this country, still persists in the chimerical idea design of subjugating these United States; which will compel us into another active and perhaps bloody campaign.
The United States in Congress assembled, therefore, taking into consideration our present situation, our multiplied transgressions of the holy laws of our God, and his past acts of kindness and goodness exercised towards us, which we would ought to record with the liveliest gratitude, think it their indispensable duty to call upon the different several states, to set apart the last Thursday in April next, as a day of fasting, humiliation and prayer, that our joint supplications may then ascend to the throne of the Ruler of the Universe, beseeching Him that he would to diffuse a spirit of universal reformation among all ranks and degrees of our citizens; and make us a holy, that so we may be an happy people; that it would please Him to impart wisdom, integrity and unanimity to our counsellors; to bless and prosper the reign of our illustrious ally, and give success to his arms employed in the defence of the rights of human nature; that He would smile upon our military arrangements by land and sea; administer comfort and consolation to our prisoners in a cruel captivity; that he would protect the health and life of our Commander in Chief; give grant us victory over our enemies; establish peace in all our borders, and give happiness to all our inhabitants; that he would prosper the labor of the husbandman, making the earth yield its increase in abundance, and give a proper season for the in gathering of the fruits thereof; that He would grant success to all engaged in lawful trade and commerce, and take under his guardianship all schools and seminaries of learning, and make them nurseries of virtue and piety; that He would incline the hearts of all men to peace, and fill them with universal charity and benevolence, and that the religion of our Divine Redeemer, with all its benign influences, may cover the earth as the waters cover the seas. John Hanson, President of the United States in Congress Assembled. Charles Thomson, Secretary of the United States in Congress Assembled
Thanksgiving Proclamation
October 11th, 1782
United States in Congress Assembled
November 5, 1781 to November 4, 1782
It being the indispensable duty of all nations, not only to offer up their supplications to Almighty God, the giver of all good, for his gracious assistance in the a time of public distress, but also in a solemn and public manner to give him praise for his goodness in general, and especially for great and signal interpositions of his Providence in their behalf; therefore, the United States in Congress assembled, taking into their consideration the many instances of divine goodness to these states, in the course of the important conflict in which they have been so long engaged; and the present happy and promising state of public affairs; and the events of the war in the course of the last year now drawing to a close, particularly the harmony of the public councils, which is so necessary to the success of the public cause; the perfect union and good understanding which has hitherto subsisted between them and their allies, notwithstanding the artful and unwearied attempts of the common enemy to sow dissension between them divide them; the success of the arms of the United States and those of their allies, and the acknowledgment of their independence by another European power, whose friendship and commerce must be of great and lasting advantage to these states; and the success of their arms and those of their allies in different parts do hereby recommend it to the inhabitants of these states in general, to observe, and recommend it to the executives of request the several states to interpose their authority in appointing and requiring commanding the observation of the last Thursday, in the 28 day of November next, as a day of solemn thanksgiving to God for all his mercies: and they do further recommend to all ranks, to testify their gratitude to God for his goodness, by a cheerful obedience to his laws, and by promoting, each in his station, and by his influence, the practice of true and undefiled religion, which is the great foundation of public prosperity and national happiness.
John Hanson, President of the United States in Congress Assembled. Charles Thomson, Secretary of the United States in Congress Assembled
John Hanson, President of the United States in Congress Assembled. Charles Thomson, Secretary of the United States in Congress Assembled
Click Here to view the US Mint & Coin Acts 1782-1792
United States in Congress Assembled
November 4, 1782 to November 3, 1783
Proclamation of Thanks
to the Army
October 18, 1783
Whereas in the progress of an arduous and difficult war, the armies of the United States of America have eminently displayed every military and patriotic virtue, and are not less to be applauded for their invincible fortitude and magnanimity in the most trying scenes of adversity and distress, than for a series of heroic and illustrious achievements, which exalt them to a high rank among the most zealous and successful defenders of the rights and liberties of mankind. And whereas by the blessing of Divine Providence on our cause and our arms, the glorious period is arrived when our national independence and sovereignty are established, and we enjoy the prospect of a permanent and honorable peace: We therefore, the United States in Congress assembled, thus impressed with a lively sense of the distinguished merit and good conduct of the said armies, do give them the thanks of their country, for their long, eminent and faithful services.
And it is our will and pleasure, that such part of the federal armies as stands engaged to serve during the war, and as by our Acts of the 26 day of May, the 11 day of June, the 9 day August, and the 26 day of September last, were furloughed, shall, from and after the tenth third day of October November next, be absolutely discharged by virtue of this our proclamation, from the said service: and we do also declare, that the further services in the field, of the officers who are deranged and on furlough, in consequence of our aforesaid Acts, can now be dispensed with, and they have our full permission to retire from service, without being longer liable from their present engagements, to be called into command. And of such discharge and permission to retire from service respectively, all our officers, civil and military, and all others whom it may concern, are required to take notice, and to govern themselves accordingly.
Given under the seal of the United States in Congress assembled, witness his Excellency Elias Boudinot, our President in Congress, this eighteenth day of October, in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and eighty-three, and of the sovereignty and independence of the United States of America the eighth.
And it is our will and pleasure, that such part of the federal armies as stands engaged to serve during the war, and as by our Acts of the 26 day of May, the 11 day of June, the 9 day August, and the 26 day of September last, were furloughed, shall, from and after the tenth third day of October November next, be absolutely discharged by virtue of this our proclamation, from the said service: and we do also declare, that the further services in the field, of the officers who are deranged and on furlough, in consequence of our aforesaid Acts, can now be dispensed with, and they have our full permission to retire from service, without being longer liable from their present engagements, to be called into command. And of such discharge and permission to retire from service respectively, all our officers, civil and military, and all others whom it may concern, are required to take notice, and to govern themselves accordingly.
Given under the seal of the United States in Congress assembled, witness his Excellency Elias Boudinot, our President in Congress, this eighteenth day of October, in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and eighty-three, and of the sovereignty and independence of the United States of America the eighth.
United States of America
US President Proclamations
Constitution of 1787
US President Proclamations
Constitution of 1787
Thanksgiving Proclamation
George Washington’s First Presidential Thanksgiving Proclamation. In this signed, handwritten document, Washington thanks “providence” for bringing America through the Revolutionary War, and for the chance “to establish constitutions of government for our safety and happiness, and particularly the national One now lately instituted--for the civil and religious liberty with which we are blessed; and the means we have of acquiring and diffusing useful knowledge...” In one of the final acts of the historic first session of the first Federal Congress sitting in New York, Congress had requested that the president issue such a proclamation. On September 28, 1789, the day Congress passed the Thanksgiving Proclamation resolution, the proposed Bill of Rights passed its final Congressional hurdle. Two days later, Washington sent copies of the Bill of Rights to the states for ratification, and the next day issued this Proclamation.
October 3, 1789
Whereas it is the duty of all Nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey his will, to be grateful for his benefits, and humbly to implore his protection and favor--and whereas both Houses of Congress have by their joint Committee requested me "to recommend to the People of the United States a day of public thanksgiving and prayer to be observed by acknowledging with grateful hearts the many signal favors of Almighty God especially by affording them an opportunity peaceably to establish a form of government for their safety and happiness."
Now therefore I do recommend and assign Thursday the 26th day of November next to be devoted by the People of these States to the service of that great and glorious Being, who is the beneficent Author of all the good that was, that is, or that will be--That we may then all unite in rendering unto him our sincere and humble thanks--for his kind care and protection of the People of this Country previous to their becoming a Nation--for the signal and manifold mercies, and the favorable interpositions of his Providence which we experienced in the tranquillity, union, and plenty, which we have since enjoyed--for the peaceable and rational manner, in which we have been enabled to establish constitutions of government for our safety and happiness, and particularly the national One now lately instituted--for the civil and religious liberty with which we are blessed; and the means we have of acquiring and diffusing useful knowledge; and in general for all the great and various favors which he hath been pleased to confer upon us.
and also that we may then unite in most humbly offering our prayers and supplications to the great Lord and Ruler of Nations and beseech him to pardon our national and other transgressions--to enable us all, whether in public or private stations, to perform our several and relative duties properly and punctually--to render our national government a blessing to all the people, by constantly being a Government of wise, just, and constitutional laws, discreetly and faithfully executed and obeyed--to protect and guide all Sovereigns and Nations (especially such as have shewn kindness onto us) and to bless them with good government, peace, and concord--To promote the knowledge and practice of true religion and virtue, and the encrease of science among them and us--and generally to grant unto all Mankind such a degree of temporal prosperity as he alone knows to be best.
Given under my hand at the City of New-York the third day of October in the year of our Lord 1789. Go: Washington, President of the United States of America
March 23rd 1798
As the safety and prosperity of nations ultimately and essentially depend on the protection and the blessing of Almighty God, and the national acknowledgment of this truth is not only an indispensable duty which the people owe to Him, but a duty whose natural influence is favorable to the promotion of that morality and piety without which social happiness can not exist nor the blessings of a free government be enjoyed; and as this duty, at all times incumbent, is so especially in seasons of difficulty or of danger, when existing or threatening calamities, the just judgments of God against prevalent iniquity, are a loud call to repentance and reformation; and as the United States of America are at present placed in a hazardous and afflictive situation by the unfriendly disposition, conduct, and demands of a foreign power, evinced by repeated refusals to receive our messengers of reconciliation and peace, by depredations on our commerce, and the infliction of injuries on very many of our fellow-citizens while engaged in their lawful business on the seas--under these considerations it has appeared to me that the duty of imploring the mercy and benediction of Heaven on our country demands at this time a special attention from its inhabitants.
I have therefore thought fit to recommend, and I do hereby recommend, that Wednesday, the 9th day of May next, be observed throughout the United States as a day of solemn humiliation, fasting, and prayer; that the citizens of these States, abstaining on that day from their customary worldly occupations, offer their devout addresses to the Father of Mercies agreeably to those forms or methods which they have severally adopted as the most suitable and becoming; that all religious congregations do, with the deepest humility, acknowledge before God the manifold sins and transgressions with which we are justly chargeable as individuals and as a nation, beseeching Him at the same time, of His infinite grace, through the Redeemer of the World, freely to remit all our offenses, and to incline us by His Holy Spirit to that sincere repentance and reformation which may afford us reason to hope for his inestimable favor and heavenly benediction; that it be made the subject of particular and earnest supplication that our country may be protected from all the dangers which threaten it; that our civil and religious privileges may be preserved inviolate and perpetuated to the latest generations; that our public councils and magistrates may be especially enlightened and directed at this critical period; that the American people may be united in those bonds of amity and mutual confidence and inspired with that vigor and fortitude by which they have in times past been so highly distinguished and by which they have obtained such invaluable advantages; that the health of the inhabitants of our land may be preserved, and their agriculture, commerce, fisheries, arts, and manufactures be blessed and prospered; that the principles of genuine piety and sound morality may influence the minds and govern the lives of every description of our citizens, and that the blessings of peace, freedom, and pure religion may be speedily extended to all the nations of the earth.
And Finally, I recommend that on the said day the duties of humiliation and prayer be accompanied by fervent thanksgiving to the Bestower of Every Good Gift, not only for His having hitherto protected and preserved the people of these United States in the independent enjoyment of their religious and civil freedom, but also for having prospered them in a wonderful progress of population, and for conferring on them many and great favors conducive to the happiness and prosperity of a nation. Given under my hand and the seal of the United States of America, at Philadelphia, this 23d day of march, A. D. 1798, and of the Independence of the said States the twenty-second. JOHN ADAMS, President of the United States of America.
I have therefore thought fit to recommend, and I do hereby recommend, that Wednesday, the 9th day of May next, be observed throughout the United States as a day of solemn humiliation, fasting, and prayer; that the citizens of these States, abstaining on that day from their customary worldly occupations, offer their devout addresses to the Father of Mercies agreeably to those forms or methods which they have severally adopted as the most suitable and becoming; that all religious congregations do, with the deepest humility, acknowledge before God the manifold sins and transgressions with which we are justly chargeable as individuals and as a nation, beseeching Him at the same time, of His infinite grace, through the Redeemer of the World, freely to remit all our offenses, and to incline us by His Holy Spirit to that sincere repentance and reformation which may afford us reason to hope for his inestimable favor and heavenly benediction; that it be made the subject of particular and earnest supplication that our country may be protected from all the dangers which threaten it; that our civil and religious privileges may be preserved inviolate and perpetuated to the latest generations; that our public councils and magistrates may be especially enlightened and directed at this critical period; that the American people may be united in those bonds of amity and mutual confidence and inspired with that vigor and fortitude by which they have in times past been so highly distinguished and by which they have obtained such invaluable advantages; that the health of the inhabitants of our land may be preserved, and their agriculture, commerce, fisheries, arts, and manufactures be blessed and prospered; that the principles of genuine piety and sound morality may influence the minds and govern the lives of every description of our citizens, and that the blessings of peace, freedom, and pure religion may be speedily extended to all the nations of the earth.
And Finally, I recommend that on the said day the duties of humiliation and prayer be accompanied by fervent thanksgiving to the Bestower of Every Good Gift, not only for His having hitherto protected and preserved the people of these United States in the independent enjoyment of their religious and civil freedom, but also for having prospered them in a wonderful progress of population, and for conferring on them many and great favors conducive to the happiness and prosperity of a nation. Given under my hand and the seal of the United States of America, at Philadelphia, this 23d day of march, A. D. 1798, and of the Independence of the said States the twenty-second. JOHN ADAMS, President of the United States of America.
President Thomas Jefferson
 |
| Click Here to view the US Mint & Coin Acts 1782-1792 |
Third President of the United States
under the US Constitution of 1787
March 4, 1801 – March 4, 1809
Day of Thanksgiving and Prayer
When Jefferson was
President, he did not issue a Thanksgiving Day proclamation, despite doing so
as Virginia’s Governor in 1779. On January
23, 1808, President Jefferson wrote a letter in response to Reverend Samuel
Miller’s proposal that he recommend a national day of fasting and prayer stating:
"I consider the government of the United States as
interdicted by the Constitution from intermeddling with religious institutions,
their doctrines, discipline, or exercises...Certainly no power to prescribe any
religious exercise, or to assume authority in religious discipline, has been
delegated to the general government. ...But it is only proposed that I should recommend, not prescribe a day of
fasting and prayer. That is, that I should indirectly assume to the United States an authority over
religious exercises, which the Constitution has directly precluded them
from...civil powers alone have been given to the President of the United States
and no authority to direct the religious exercises of his constituents."
James Madison
 |
| Click Here to view the US Mint & Coin Acts 1782-1792 |
Fourth President of the United States
Under the Constitution of 1787
Under the Constitution of 1787
March 4, 1809 – March 4, 1817
Day of Public Humiliation, Fasting, and Prayer
November 16, 1814
By the President of the United States of America
A PROCLAMATION
The two Houses of the National Legislature having by a joint resolution expressed their desire that in the present time of public calamity and war a day may be recommended to be observed by the people of the United States as a day of public humiliation and fasting and of prayer to Almighty God for the safety and welfare of these States, His blessing on their arms, and a speedy restoration of peace, I have deemed it proper by this proclamation to recommend that Thursday, the 12th of January next, be set apart as a day on which all may have an opportunity of voluntarily offering at the same time in their respective religious assemblies their humble adoration to the Great Sovereign of the Universe, of confessing their sins and transgressions, and of strengthening their vows of repentance and amendment. They will be invited by the same solemn occasion to call to mind the distinguished favors conferred on the American people in the general health which has been enjoyed, in the abundant fruits of the season, in the progress of the arts instrumental to their comfort, their prosperity, and their security, and in the victories which have so powerfully contributed to the defense and protection of our country, a devout thankfulness for all which ought to be mingled with their supplications to the Beneficent Parent of the Human Race that He would be graciously pleased to pardon all their offenses against Him; to support and animate them in the discharge of their respective duties; to continue to them the precious advantages flowing from political institutions so auspicious to their safety against dangers from abroad, to their tranquillity at home, and to their liberties, civil and religious; and that He would in a special manner preside over the nation in its public councils and constituted authorities, giving wisdom to its measures and success to its arms in maintaining its rights and in overcoming all hostile designs and attempts against it; and, finally, that by inspiring the enemy with dispositions favorable to a just and reasonable peace its blessings may be speedily and happily restored.
Given at the city of Washington, the 16th day of November, 1814, and of the Independence of the United States the thirty-eighth.
JAMES MADISON, President
A Day of Public Thanksgiving for Peace
March 4, 1815
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation
A Proclamation
The
Senate and House of Representatives of the United States have by a joint
resolution signified their desire that a day may be recommended to be observed
by the people of the United States with religious solemnity as a day of
thanksgiving and of devout acknowledgments to Almighty God for His great
goodness manifested in restoring to them the blessing of peace.
No
people ought to feel greater obligations to celebrate the goodness of the Great
Disposer of Events and of the Destiny of Nations than the people of the United
States. His kind providence originally conducted them to one of the best
portions of the dwelling place allotted for the great family of the human race.
He protected and cherished them under all the difficulties and trials to which
they were exposed in their early days. Under His fostering care their habits,
their sentiments, and their pursuits prepared them for a transition in due time
to a state of independence and self-government. In the arduous struggle by
which it was attained they were distinguished by multiplied tokens of His
benign interposition. During the interval which succeeded He reared them into
the strength and endowed them with the resources which have enabled them to
assert their national rights and to enhance their national character in another
arduous conflict, which is now so happily terminated by a peace and
reconciliation with those who have been our enemies. And to the same Divine
Author of Every Good and Perfect Gift we are indebted for all those privileges
and advantages, religious as well as civil, which are so richly enjoyed in this
favored land.
It is
for blessings such as these, and more especially for the restoration of the
blessing of peace, that I now recommend that the second Thursday in April next
be set apart as a day on which the people of every religious denomination may
in their solemn assemblies unite their hearts and their voices in a freewill
offering to their Heavenly Benefactor of their homage of thanksgiving and of
their songs of praise.
Given
at the city of Washington on the 4th day of March, A. D. 1815, and of the
Independence of the United States the thirty- ninth.
JAMES MADISON, President
Abraham Lincoln
16th President of the United States
Under the Constitution of 1787
March 4, 1861 – April 15, 1865
April 10, 1862
|
Abraham Lincoln
|
Proclamation 88 - Day of Public
Thanksgiving for Civil War Victories
|
July 15, 1863
|
Abraham Lincoln
|
Proclamation 103 - Day of Thanksgiving, Praise, and Prayer,
August 6, 1863
|
October 3, 1863
|
Abraham Lincoln
|
Proclamation 106 - Thanksgiving Day, 1863
|
October 20, 1864
|
Abraham Lincoln
|
Proclamation 118 - Thanksgiving Day, 1864
|
It took nearly 50 years and a Civil War before another President would issue a Thanksgiving Proclamation. On April 1oth, 1862 President Lincoln Proclaimed a Day of Public Thanksgiving for the Union Victories During the Civil War. He would issue three more Thanksgiving Proclamations with the most notable being written by Secretary of State William Seward, proclaiming, on October 3rd, 1863, that the fourth Thursday of every November thereafter would be considered an official U.S. holiday of Thanksgiving. This proclamation was issued primarily to express the gratitude for a crucial Union Army victory at Gettysburg. From this point forward Presidents would regularly issue Thanksgiving Proclamations.
Thanksgiving Day Proclamation
By the President of the United
States of America
A Proclamation
The
year that is drawing toward its close has been filled with the blessings of
fruitful fields and healthful skies. To these bounties, which are so constantly
enjoyed that we are prone to forget the source from which they come, others
have been added which are of so extraordinary a nature that they can not fail
to penetrate and soften even the heart which is habitually insensible to the
ever-watchful providence of Almighty God.
In
the midst of a civil war of unequaled magnitude and severity, which has
sometimes seemed to foreign states to invite and to provoke their aggression,
peace has been preserved with all nations, order has been maintained, the laws
have been respected and obeyed, and harmony has prevailed everywhere, except in
the theater of military conflict, while that theater has been greatly
contracted by the advancing armies and navies of the Union.
Needful
diversions of wealth and of strength from the fields of peaceful industry to
the national defense have not arrested the plow, the shuttle, or the ship; the
ax has enlarged the borders of our settlements, and the mines, as well of iron
and coal as of the precious metals, have yielded even more abundantly than
heretofore. Population has steadily increased notwithstanding the waste that
has been made in the camp, the siege, and the battlefield, and the country,
rejoicing in the consciousness of augmented strength and vigor, is permitted to
expect continuance of years with large increase of freedom.
No
human counsel hath devised nor hath any mortal hand worked out these great
things. They are the gracious gifts of the Most High God, who, while dealing
with us in anger for our sins, hath nevertheless remembered mercy.
It
has seemed to me fit and proper that they should be solemnly, reverently, and
gratefully acknowledged, as with one heart and one voice, by the whole American
people. I do therefore invite my fellow-citizens in every part of the United
States, and also those who are at sea and those who are sojourning in foreign
lands, to set apart and observe the last Thursday of November next as a day of
thanksgiving and praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the heavens.
And I recommend to them that while offering up the ascriptions justly due to
Him for such singular deliverances and blessings they do also, with humble
penitence for our national perverseness and disobedience, commend to His tender
care all those who have become widows, orphans. mourners, or sufferers in the lamentable
civil strife in which we are unavoidably engaged, and fervently implore the
interposition of the Almighty hand to heal the wounds of the nation and to
restore it, as soon as may be consistent with the divine purposes, to the full
enjoyment of peace, harmony, tranquillity, and union.
In
testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of the United
States to be affixed.
Done
at the city of Washington, this 3d day of October, A. D. 1863, and of the
Independence of the United States the eighty-eighth.
ABRAHAM
LINCOLN, By the President:
WILLIAM
H. SEWARD, Secretary of State.
Jefferson Davis
 |
| Confederate States of America $50 note issued at Richmond, April 6, 1863. Features portrait of Confederate President Jefferson J Davis at center. This Autographed by Confederate officials H. Smith, for Register, and J. J. Hatch,Treasurer - Historic.us Collection |
President of the Confederate States of America
February 18, 1861 – May 10, 1865
Confederate States of America President Jefferson Davis was also no stranger to Thanksgiving proclamation having given thanks for victories in battle in 1862 and had, early in 1861, proclaimed a Day of Fasting & Humiliation. Shortly, after the Battle of Gettysburg President Davis issued a second Proclamation calling for a day of fasting, humiliation and prayer:
PROCLAMATION BY THE PRESIDENT
The Confederate States - Again do I call upon the people of the Confederacy -- a people who believe that the Lord reigneth, and that His overruling Providence ordereth all things -- to unite in prayer and humble submission under His chastening hand, and to beseech His favor on our suffering country.
It is meet that when trials and reverses befall us we should seek to take home to our hearts and consciences the lessons which they teach, and profit by the self-examination for which they prepare us. Had not our success on land and sea made us self-confident and forgetful of our reliance on Him? Had not the love of lucre eaten like a gangrene into the very heart of the land, converting too many of us into worshippers of gain and rendering them unmindful of their duty to their country, to their fellow-men, and to their God? Who, then, will presume to complain that we have been chastened, or to despair of our just cause and the protection of our Heavenly Father?
Let us rather receive in humble thankfulness the lesson which He has taught in our recent reverses, devoutly acknowledging that to Him, and not to our own feeble arms, are due the honor and the glory of victory; that from Him, in His paternal providence, come the anguish and sufferings of defeat, and that, whether in victory or defeat, our humble supplications are due to His footstool.
Now, therefore, I, JEFFERSON DAVIS, President of these Confederate States, do issue this, my Proclamation, setting apart Friday, the 21st day of August ensuing, as a day of fasting, humiliation and prayer; and I do hereby invite the people of the Confederate States to repair, on that day, to their respective places of public worship, and to unite in supplication for the favor and protection of that God who has hitherto conducted us safely through all the dangers that environed us.
[a.s.]
In faith whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and the seal of the Confederate States, at Richmond, this twenty-fifth day of July, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and sixty-three.
By the President: JEFFERSON DAVIS.
J.P. BENJAMIN, Secretary of State.
Andrew Johnson
 |
| Click Here to view the US Mint & Coin Acts 1782-1792 |
17th President of the United States
under the Constitution of 1787
April 15, 1865 – March 4, 1869
October 28, 1865
|
Andrew Johnson
|
Proclamation Thanksgiving Day, 1865
|
October 8, 1866
|
Andrew Johnson
|
Proclamation Thanksgiving Day, 1866
|
October 26, 1867
|
Andrew Johnson
|
Proclamation Thanksgiving Day, 1867
|
October 12, 1868
|
Andrew Johnson
|
Proclamation Thanksgiving Day, 1868
|
Thanksgiving Day
Proclamation
By the President of the United States of America
October 28, 1865
October 28, 1865
Whereas it has pleased Almighty God
during the year which is now coming to an end to relieve our beloved country
from the fearful scourge of civil war and to permit us to secure the blessings
of peace, unity, and harmony, with a great enlargement of civil liberty; and
Whereas our Heavenly Father has also
during the year graciously averted from us the calamities of foreign war,
pestilence, and famine, while our granaries are full of the fruits of an
abundant season; and
Whereas righteousness exalteth a
nation, while sin is a reproach to any people:
Now, therefore, be it known that I,
Andrew Johnson, President of the United States, do hereby recommend to the
people thereof that they do set apart and observe the first Thursday of
December next as a day of national thanksgiving to the Creator of the Universe
for these great deliverances and blessings.
And I do further recommend that on
that occasion the whole people make confession of our national sins against His
infinite goodness, and with one heart and one mind implore the divine guidance
in the ways of national virtue and holiness.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto
set my hand and caused the seal of the United States to be affixed.
Done at the city of Washington, this
28th day of October, A.D. 1865, and of the Independence of the United States of
America the ninetieth.
ANDREW JOHNSON.
By the President:
WILLIAM H SEWARD, Secretary of State
Chronological List of U.S. Presidents' Thanksgiving Day Proclamations: 1863–2024
Below is the combined and expanded list of Thanksgiving Day Proclamations issued by U.S. Presidents from Abraham Lincoln to Joe Biden.
1863–1941: Annual Thanksgiving Proclamations (Last Thursday of November)
Abraham Lincoln (1861–1865)
- October 3, 1863 (Saturday) – Proclaimed Thanksgiving for November 26, 1863 (Thursday), marking the first annual national observance of Thanksgiving.
- October 20, 1864 (Thursday) – Thanksgiving for November 24, 1864 (Thursday).
Andrew Johnson (1865–1869)
- Continued Lincoln’s tradition of annual proclamations:
- October 28, 1865 (Saturday) – Thanksgiving for November 30, 1865 (Thursday).
- October 30, 1866 (Tuesday) – Thanksgiving for November 29, 1866 (Thursday).
- October 31, 1867 (Thursday) – Thanksgiving for November 28, 1867 (Thursday).
- October 12, 1868 (Monday) – Thanksgiving for November 26, 1868 (Thursday).
Ulysses S. Grant (1869–1877)
- Annual proclamations continued:
- October 7, 1869 (Thursday) – Thanksgiving for November 25, 1869 (Thursday).
Rutherford B. Hayes to Herbert Hoover (1877–1933)
- Presidents issued Thanksgiving proclamations annually on the last Thursday of November.
Herbert Hoover (1929–1933)
- Proclamations maintained the last Thursday tradition:
- November 4, 1929 (Monday) – Thanksgiving for November 28, 1929 (Thursday).
Franklin D. Roosevelt (1933–1945)
- Roosevelt moved Thanksgiving to the second-to-last Thursday in 1939 and 1940 to extend the holiday shopping season:
- November 23, 1939 (Thursday) – First "early Thanksgiving."
- November 21, 1940 (Thursday) – Thanksgiving for the second-to-last Thursday.
- November 26, 1941 (Wednesday) – Signed into law that Thanksgiving would be observed on the fourth Thursday of November starting in 1942.
1942–Present: Thanksgiving on the Fourth Thursday (Fixed Date)
Franklin D. Roosevelt (1942–1945)
- Thanksgiving observed on the fourth Thursday of November beginning in 1942.
Harry S. Truman (1945–1952)
- Issued Thanksgiving proclamations annually after WWII:
- October 25, 1945 (Thursday) – Thanksgiving for November 22, 1945 (Thursday), the first after the war.
Dwight D. Eisenhower (1953–1960)
- Thanksgiving proclamations continued annually:
- October 23, 1953 (Friday) – Thanksgiving for November 26, 1953 (Thursday).
John F. Kennedy (1961–1963)
- Thanksgiving proclamations emphasized civil rights progress and international peace efforts:
- November 5, 1963 (Tuesday) – Thanksgiving for November 28, 1963 (Thursday).
Lyndon B. Johnson (1963–1969)
- Annual proclamations during his presidency:
- October 28, 1964 (Wednesday) – Thanksgiving for November 26, 1964 (Thursday).
Richard Nixon (1969–1974)
- Thanksgiving proclamations reflected themes of national unity during social change:
- October 28, 1971 (Thursday) – Thanksgiving for November 25, 1971 (Thursday).
Gerald Ford (1974–1977)
- Issued Thanksgiving proclamations annually:
- October 21, 1976 (Thursday) – Thanksgiving for November 25, 1976 (Thursday).
Jimmy Carter (1977–1981)
- Thanksgiving proclamations focused on gratitude for blessings and national progress:
- October 27, 1977 (Thursday) – Thanksgiving for November 24, 1977 (Thursday).
Ronald Reagan (1981–1989)
- Proclaimed Thanksgiving annually, often emphasizing faith, freedom, and American resilience:
- October 14, 1981 (Wednesday) – Thanksgiving for November 26, 1981 (Thursday).
George H.W. Bush (1989–1993)
- Thanksgiving proclamations highlighted global peace and national gratitude:
- October 30, 1989 (Monday) – Thanksgiving for November 23, 1989 (Thursday).
Bill Clinton (1993–2001)
- Thanksgiving proclamations focused on unity and gratitude during an era of economic growth:
- October 24, 1996 (Thursday) – Thanksgiving for November 28, 1996 (Thursday).
George W. Bush (2001–2009)
- Thanksgiving proclamations during a period marked by post-9/11 resilience and unity:
- November 15, 2001 (Thursday) – Thanksgiving for November 22, 2001 (Thursday).
Barack Obama (2009–2017)
- Thanksgiving proclamations emphasized diversity, gratitude, and the strength of the American people:
- November 16, 2016 (Wednesday) – Thanksgiving for November 24, 2016 (Thursday).
Donald Trump (2017–2021)
- Thanksgiving proclamations reflected gratitude for blessings and national pride:
- November 20, 2018 (Tuesday) – Thanksgiving for November 22, 2018 (Thursday).
Joe Biden (2021–Present)
- Thanksgiving proclamations issued annually:
- November 16, 2021 (Tuesday) – Thanksgiving for November 25, 2021 (Thursday).
- Thanksgiving in 2024 is set for November 28, 2024 (Thursday).
Summary
From Lincoln’s first annual proclamation in 1863 to Biden’s 2024 observance, Thanksgiving has evolved into a cherished national tradition. Since 1941, Thanksgiving has been celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November, with every president continuing to issue annual proclamations.
The Congressional Evolution of the United States of America
For students and teachers of U.S. history, this video features Stanley and Christopher Klos presenting America's Four United Republics Curriculum at the University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School. Filmed in December 2015, this video is an informal recording by an audience member capturing a presentation attended by approximately 200 students, professors, and guests. To explore the full curriculum, [download it here].
Sept. 5, 1774 to July 1, 1776
September 5, 1774 | October 22, 1774 | |
October 22, 1774 | October 26, 1774 | |
May 20, 1775 | May 24, 1775 | |
May 25, 1775 | July 1, 1776 |
Commander-in-Chief United Colonies & States of America
George Washington: June 15, 1775 - December 23, 1783
July 2, 1776 to February 28, 1781
July 2, 1776 | October 29, 1777 | |
November 1, 1777 | December 9, 1778 | |
December 10, 1778 | September 28, 1779 | |
September 29, 1779 | February 28, 1781 |
Presidents of the United States in Congress Assembled
March 1, 1781 to March 3, 1789
March 1, 1781 to March 3, 1789
March 1, 1781 | July 6, 1781 | |
July 10, 1781 | Declined Office | |
July 10, 1781 | November 4, 1781 | |
November 5, 1781 | November 3, 1782 | |
November 4, 1782 | November 2, 1783 | |
November 3, 1783 | June 3, 1784 | |
November 30, 1784 | November 22, 1785 | |
November 23, 1785 | June 5, 1786 | |
June 6, 1786 | February 1, 1787 | |
February 2, 1787 | January 21, 1788 | |
January 22, 1788 | January 21, 1789 |
Articles of Confederation Congress
United States in Congress Assembled (USCA) Sessions
United States in Congress Assembled (USCA) Sessions
USCA | Session Dates | USCA Convene Date | President(s) |
First | 03-01-1781 to 11-04-1781* | 03-02-1781 | |
Second | 11-05-1781 to 11-03-1782 | 11-05-1781 | |
Third | 11-04-1782 to 11-02-1783 | 11-04-1782 | |
Fourth | 11-03-1783 to 10-31-1784 | 11-03-1783 | |
Fifth | 11-01-1784 to 11-06-1785 | 11-29-1784 | |
Sixth | 11-07-1785 to 11-05-1786 | 11-23-1785 | |
Seventh | 11-06-1786 to 11-04-1787 | 02-02-1787 | |
Eighth | 11-05-1787 to 11-02-1788 | 01-21-1788 | |
Ninth | 11-03-1788 to 03-03-1789** | None | None |
* The Articles of Confederation was ratified by the mandated 13th State on February 2, 1781, and the dated adopted by the Continental Congress to commence the new United States in Congress Assembled government was March 1, 1781. The USCA convened under the Articles of Confederation Constitution on March 2, 1781.** On September 14, 1788, the Eighth United States in Congress Assembled resolved that March 4th, 1789, would be commencement date of the Constitution of 1787's federal government thus dissolving the USCA on March 3rd, 1789.
Presidents of the United States of America
Capitals of the United Colonies and States of America
Philadelphia | Sept. 5, 1774 to Oct. 24, 1774 | |
Philadelphia | May 10, 1775 to Dec. 12, 1776 | |
Baltimore | Dec. 20, 1776 to Feb. 27, 1777 | |
Philadelphia | March 4, 1777 to Sept. 18, 1777 | |
Lancaster | September 27, 1777 | |
York | Sept. 30, 1777 to June 27, 1778 | |
Philadelphia | July 2, 1778 to June 21, 1783 | |
Princeton | June 30, 1783 to Nov. 4, 1783 | |
Annapolis | Nov. 26, 1783 to Aug. 19, 1784 | |
Trenton | Nov. 1, 1784 to Dec. 24, 1784 | |
New York City | Jan. 11, 1785 to Nov. 13, 1788 | |
New York City | October 6, 1788 to March 3,1789 | |
New York City | March 3,1789 to August 12, 1790 | |
Philadelphia | Dec. 6,1790 to May 14, 1800 | |
Washington DC | November 17,1800 to Present |
Secure a unique primary source exhibit and a professional speaker for your next event by reaching out to Historic.us today. Serving a wide range of clients—including Fortune 500 companies, associations, nonprofits, colleges, universities, national conventions, and PR and advertising agencies—we are a premier national exhibitor of primary sources. Our engaging and educational historic displays are crafted to captivate and inform your audience, creating a memorable experience. Join our roster of satisfied clients and see how Historic.us can elevate your event. Contact us to explore options tailored to your audience and objectives!
Historic.us
A Non-profit Corporation
Primary Source Exhibits
Exhibit Inquiries
202-239-1774 | Office
Stan@Historic.us
Website: www.Historic.us
Edited: Open AI. (2024). ChatGPT [Large language model] - https://chatgpt.com
No comments:
Post a Comment
Note: Only a member of this blog may post a comment.