George Washington’s First Thanksgiving Proclamation: A Nation Learns to Give Thanks

A New Nation, A New Tradition

When Congress asked George Washington to issue a Thanksgiving Proclamation in fall 1789, the United States was just months into its new constitutional government. The nation had elected its first president, established Congress, created the Supreme Court, and begun learning how to operate as one united republic.

On October 3, 1789, Washington issued a proclamation designating Thursday, November 26, 1789 as a day of national thanksgiving — the first federal Thanksgiving in American history. While colonies and states had observed days of thanks earlier, this proclamation marked the first unified call to pause across the country.

A Call for Gratitude, Reflection, and Prayer

Washington’s proclamation called citizens to offer “sincere and humble thanks” for the nation’s newly won peace, liberties, Constitution, and government. He also encouraged Americans to acknowledge divine providence and to work toward “the knowledge and practice of true religion and virtue.”

His tone was humble and unifying — not political, not partisan, but reflective and aspirational for a nation finding its identity.

Congress’s Role

Many forget Congress played a key role: both chambers passed a resolution requesting Washington recommend a national day of thanksgiving. This helped set an early precedent for cooperation between branches of government on civic observances.

Not Yet a National Holiday

Washington’s proclamation was historic — but Thanksgiving would not become an annual federal holiday until Abraham Lincoln in 1863. Early observances varied by state and region, and the tradition evolved slowly until the mid-19th century.

Washington issued a second proclamation in 1795, though in later years, Presidents John Adams and James Madison also called for days of thanks.

Why This Moment Mattered

Washington understood the fragile unity of the time. The nation was young, still healing from war and building trust in its new institutions. His proclamation encouraged Americans to find common civic ground in shared gratitude.

At its heart, Thanksgiving began as a moment to pause, reflect on blessings, and recognize the responsibilities that come with liberty.

Enduring Lessons

Washington’s words remind us that gratitude — especially in moments of transition or uncertainty — strengthens communities and nations. Today’s Thanksgiving celebrations echo his vision: shared meals, reflection, gratitude for freedoms, and commitment to one another.

More than two centuries later, his call still resonates: a country united in giving thanks.