‘In times of great adversity’: 7 Thanksgiving proclamations issued during national crises

Franklin Delano Roosevelt
Franklin Delano Roosevelt | Wikimedia Commons/James Blanchard

As many have pointed out, this year’s Thanksgiving is different from most, due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic and subsequent lockdowns.

While seeing family remains a priority for most, many have opted to cancel their gatherings or hold more limited get-togethers under public health guidelines.

Presidential proclamations to observe Thanksgiving have occurred regularly since the 19th century, regardless of the overall condition of the nation.

Here are seven Thanksgiving proclamations that were issued in times of national uncertainty, such as times of tragedy, war, and economic depression.

In addition to being a reporter, Michael Gryboski has also had a novel released titled Memories of Lasting Shadows. For more information, click here.  

Was this article helpful?

Become a CP Insider.
Help keep The Christian Post free for everyone.

The truth has a cost, and Insiders help carry it.
A dollar from an Insider comes with no strings attached. It keeps our reporters on the story, keeps our journalism open to everyone, and keeps every editorial decision in the newsroom, where it belongs.

Become a CP Insider and choose the amount you want to pay. You can change, pause or cancel anytime. As a thank-you, you’ll get:

  • The Insider Newsletter, a members-only monthly letter from our newsroom

  • Ad-free reading across christianpost.com


From as low as $8.25/month
Prefer to give once?

We’re sorry to hear that.

Hope you’ll give us another try and check out some other articles.
Return to homepage.