Although we don’t celebrate Thanksgiving in the UK, the US holiday is an excellent opportunity for teachers to look at the consequences of early explorers and its historical roots with children while also thinking about the ethos of Thanksgiving of fostering gratitude and understanding. While Thanksgiving is widely associated with feasting and family, its history tells a complex story that includes explorers, the Pilgrims, and their interaction with Native Americans.
Below are some examples of how to weave these historical and cultural elements into the classroom.
Amerigo Vespucci (1454–1512): The Man Behind the Name
Thanksgiving as a holiday doesn’t directly tie to Amerigo Vespucci but teaching about him offers context for how the Americas were named. The name “America” is said to come from Vespucci’s first name, who was an Italian explorer. Explorers were like modern-day scientists or astronauts. They were curious about the unknown, willing to face risks, and excited to learn. Vespucci helped clarify that the lands Christopher Columbus reached were not part of Asia, as initially thought, but a “New World.” He made voyages in the late 15th and early 16th centuries along the coasts of South America, mapping the region and understanding its vastness.
By looking at Vespucci, you can set the stage for understanding how Europeans came to settle in America, eventually leading to the Pilgrims’ journey.
The Mayflower and the Pilgrims’ Journey
In 1620, a group of English settlers seeking religious freedom—known as the Pilgrims—set sail on the Mayflower from Plymouth. Their tumultuous 66-day journey set them off course, so instead of dropping anchor in New Virginia, where they had permission to colonise, they landed on the shores of Cape Cod, Massachusetts. Another important aspect of the Mayflower journey was The Mayflower Compact signed aboard the ship, which became an early step in self-governance,
This early Compact or set of rules created by the Pilgrims can be looked at by introducing pupils to the importance of teamwork and community rules.
Plymouth and the First Thanksgiving
When the Pilgrims landed in Plymouth, they faced harsh conditions. Their survival depended on their resilience and the help of the Wampanoag people, who taught them vital farming and hunting skills. The first Thanksgiving feast in 1621 was a celebration of their successful harvest, shared between the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag.
Teach students about how this meal included foods like venison, fish, corn, and squash—quite different from today’s turkey and pumpkin pie! You can have students create artwork of a shared meal or write about what they are thankful for in their lives. Ask the question, Why were the Pilgrims thankful? Show the importance of shared values and respect.
The Native American Perspective
It’s important to provide a balanced perspective on Thanksgiving. While the Pilgrims’ story is often highlighted, the Wampanoag and other Native peoples had rich cultures long before European settlers arrived. The arrival of Europeans brought significant challenges for Native Americans, including loss of land and population due to diseases.
In class, you can discuss the value of mutual respect and cooperation while emphasizing the contributions of the Wampanoag people. Activities like storytelling or learning about Native American traditions can deepen students’ understanding and appreciation of this history.
Conclusion
Teaching about Thanksgiving, although not a British celebration provides a chance to combine history, empathy, and community values. By discussing figures like Amerigo Vespucci, the Pilgrims’ journey on the Mayflower, the role of Plymouth and the Wampanoag, and the concept of gratitude, you can give students a fuller picture of this holiday’s origins and its lessons for today.
Happy Thanksgiving!