“It is the indispensible duty of all men,” It is therefore recommended by Congress, that [December 18] be set apart for Solemn Thanksgiving and Praise, that at one time, and with one voice, the good people may express the grateful feelings of their hearts, and consecrate themselves to the service of their divine benefactor . . . .”

Americans, Washington declared, owe thanks to “that great and glorious Being, who is the beneficent Author of all the good that was, that is, or that will be” and should “unite in rendering unto him our sincere and humble thanks . . . for the signal and manifold mercies, and the favorable interpositions of his Providence . . . .”

Those were the days.

France allied with Americans several months later, prompting more calls for thanksgiving.