George Washington’s Thanksgiving Proclamation

In 1789, George Washington issued a proclamation establishing America's first national day of thanksgiving under the new Constitution. Responding to a request from Congress, he designated Thursday, November 26th, for citizens to thank God for the end of the war and the peaceful creation of their new government. The proclamation urged people to be grateful for their civil and religious liberties while also humbly asking for forgiveness of "national and other transgressions." Washington also called for prayers to guide the new government, bless all nations with peace, and promote virtue and science among mankind.