Featured Post from ExpertFile

ExpertSpotlight: The True History of Thanksgiving in America

Before you break for the holidays - let our experts help if you're covering Thanksgiving

Nov 23, 2024

2 min


CaptionResizeWrap TextRemove


Thanksgiving is often seen as a time for gratitude and togetherness, but its origins tell a far more complex story that intertwines indigenous history, colonialism, and the reshaping of cultural narratives.


Understanding the true history of Thanksgiving invites reflection on the ways history is remembered, celebrated, and taught.


As the holiday approaches, uncovering its deeper meaning is vital to fostering awareness of indigenous perspectives, historical accuracy, and the evolution of American traditions. This topic presents rich opportunities for journalists to explore its broader societal implications, with story angles including:


  • Indigenous Perspectives on Thanksgiving: Highlighting how Native American communities view the holiday, including the National Day of Mourning and efforts to preserve indigenous cultures and histories.
  • The Pilgrim-Indian Narrative: Investigating the historical accuracy of the widely taught Pilgrim-Indian story and its role in shaping American identity and myth-making.
  • The Role of Thanksgiving in National Unity: Exploring how Thanksgiving was solidified as a national holiday during the Civil War and its significance in fostering unity amid division.
  • Food, Culture, and Tradition: Examining how Thanksgiving has evolved as a culinary and cultural tradition, including the blending of indigenous and immigrant foodways.
  • Education and Historical Accountability: Analyzing how schools and institutions teach the history of Thanksgiving, with efforts to address inaccuracies and promote indigenous voices.
  • Thanksgiving and Modern Social Issues: Investigating the holiday’s intersection with modern challenges, such as food insecurity, consumerism, and environmental sustainability.



Revisiting the history of Thanksgiving offers a chance to deepen public understanding of American history, honor indigenous contributions, and spark meaningful conversations about cultural heritage and national identity.


Connect with an expert about the History of Thanksgiving:








To search our full list of experts visit www.expertfile.com

You might also like...

Check out some other posts from ExpertFile

2 min

#ExpertSpotlght: What are Most popular Christmas Traditions Around the World?

Christmas is celebrated in diverse and unique ways across the globe, reflecting cultural, historical, and spiritual influences that shape holiday traditions. From religious ceremonies to festive customs, this season highlights the shared human desire for connection, generosity, and joy. Understanding how different cultures celebrate Christmas provides a lens into global diversity and shared humanity. As the holiday season approaches, this topic invites journalists to explore traditions that captivate and inspire. Key story angles include: Regional Christmas Celebrations: Highlighting iconic traditions such as Germany’s Christmas markets, Mexico’s Las Posadas, or Japan’s Christmas Eve feasts of fried chicken. Religious and Spiritual Practices: Examining how Christian and non-Christian communities observe the holiday, including Midnight Mass, Epiphany celebrations, and adaptations in secular societies. The Evolution of Santa Claus: Tracing the history of Santa Claus from St. Nicholas to modern depictions, including variations like Ded Moroz in Russia or Sinterklaas in the Netherlands. Festive Foods and Feasts: Exploring traditional holiday dishes and drinks, such as panettone in Italy, pavlova in Australia, or tamales in Latin America. Sustainability and Modern Trends: Investigating how global movements toward eco-consciousness are reshaping Christmas traditions, from minimalist gift-giving to eco-friendly decorations. Music, Art, and Storytelling: Highlighting the role of Christmas carols, nativity plays, and folklore in preserving cultural heritage and fostering community spirit. Exploring Christmas traditions around the world offers a rich tapestry of stories that celebrate cultural diversity, historical roots, and the universal themes of love and generosity. Connect with an expert about Christmas Traditions: To search our full list of experts visit www.expertfile.com

1 min

#ExpertSpotlight : Notre Dame

Notre Dame Cathedral, an iconic symbol of Paris and a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, has stood for centuries as a testament to human creativity, spirituality, and resilience. This historic landmark continues to captivate global attention not only for its artistic and religious significance but also for its ability to endure and inspire amidst challenges like the devastating 2019 fire. Notre Dame matters to the public because it embodies cultural heritage, historical memory, and the ongoing effort to preserve monuments of global importance. Key story angles that may interest a broad audience include: The architectural and artistic marvels of Notre Dame: Exploring its iconic design, stained glass windows, and cultural influence on art and literature. The 2019 fire and restoration efforts: Highlighting the international response, the challenges of restoring historical structures, and the role of modern technology in reconstruction. Notre Dame's role in French and global history: Examining its significance during key historical events, including coronations, revolutions, and wartime preservation. Religious and spiritual importance: Understanding the cathedral’s role as a center for Catholic worship and its influence on interfaith dialogue. The impact of Notre Dame on tourism and local culture: Analyzing how the cathedral shapes Parisian identity and attracts millions of visitors annually. The future of Notre Dame: Discussing sustainability in historical preservation and how the restoration aligns with broader cultural and environmental goals. Connect with an expert about Notre Dame: To search our full list of experts visit www.expertfile.com

1 min

ExpertSpotlight: Origins and History of Santa Claus

Santa Claus, the beloved figure at the heart of modern Christmas celebrations, has a rich history rooted in centuries of global tradition and folklore. His story originates from Saint Nicholas, a 4th-century bishop known for his generosity, and has evolved over time through cultural influences from Europe to North America. Santa's transformation into the jolly, red-suited icon we recognize today reflects not only the blending of mythologies but also the commercialization and globalization of Christmas. Understanding Santa’s origins offers valuable insights into cultural exchange, religious traditions, and societal values. Key story angles of interest include: The historical figure of Saint Nicholas and his influence on Santa Claus How Scandinavian folklore shaped Santa's association with winter and gifts The commercialization of Santa Claus in 19th and 20th-century America Depictions of Santa across cultures, from Europe’s Sinterklaas to Russia’s Ded Moroz The role of advertising, particularly Coca-Cola, in shaping Santa’s modern image Santa Claus as a symbol of generosity and its implications for holiday consumerism Connect with an expert about the Origins and History of Santa Claus: To search our full list of experts visit www.expertfile.com

View all posts
Powered by