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Holidays

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HISTORY

The 21st century saw the dawn of the war on terrorism, as the 9/11 attacks and the Boston Marathon bombing dramatically changed society. Economic issues moved to the forefront during the Great Recession. The COVID-19 pandemic upended lives and economies around the world. Awareness of social inequality grew as the killings of Black Americans, including Trayvon Martin and George Floyd, spurred widespread protests.

21st Century

Halloween evolved from the ancient Celtic holiday of Samhain. Over the centuries, Halloween transitioned from a pagan ritual to a day of parties, costumes, jack-o-lanterns and trick-or-treating for kids and adults.

Halloween

Thanksgiving, which occurs on the fourth Thursday in November, is based on the colonial Pilgrims' 1621 harvest meal. The holiday continues to be a day for Americans to gather for a day of feasting, football and family.

Thanksgiving

The Civil War was America's bloodiest and most divisive conflict, pitting the Union Army against the Confederate States of America. The war resulted in the deaths of more than 620,000 people, with millions more injured and the South left in ruins.

Civil War

From religious and patriotic observances to celebrations of ethnic pride, explore the history of Easter, Passover, New Year's Day, Veterans' Day, Memorial Day and much more.

Holidays are an integral part of human history. Learn about Easter, New Year's Day, Valentine's Day, Memorial Day, pagan holidays and more.

Holidays

Topics

Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos)

The War on Christmas

Stories

Thanksgiving History Facts and Trivia

The Man Who Inspired Father’s Day Was a Single Dad and a Civil War Vet

How Times Square Became the Home of New Year’s Eve

Quirky Vintage Photos of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade