In the United States, this specific holiday always falls on the fourth Thursday of November. In 1995, that date corresponded to November 23rd. A calendar from that year would clearly show this alignment.
Knowing the precise date allows for accurate historical referencing. It provides context for events, personal memories, and cultural trends tied to that specific time. Understanding this date can be valuable for genealogical research, historical analysis, or simply reminiscing about a particular year. The fourth Thursday formulation for the holiday was established in 1941 by federal legislation, solidifying a consistent annual observance.
This understanding of the date facilitates further exploration of related topics, such as popular culture of the mid-1990s, significant news events surrounding that period, or the economic and social climate of the time. The specific date serves as a useful anchor for a deeper dive into the past.
1. November
November serves as the temporal anchor for Thanksgiving in the United States. The holiday’s placement within this specific month connects it to the late autumn season, a time traditionally associated with harvest and the transition to winter. In 1995, this association remained consistent. Understanding this link between November and Thanksgiving provides context for historical analyses, personal recollections, and cultural examinations related to the holiday. The month itself contributes to the overall atmosphere and traditions associated with the celebration.
The significance of November as the designated month for Thanksgiving extends beyond mere calendar placement. It influences culinary traditions, social gatherings, and even economic activity. Retailers prepare for holiday shopping, families anticipate travel plans, and communities organize seasonal events. In 1995, these patterns held true, reflecting the established cultural norms surrounding the holiday’s November observance. The month provides a framework for understanding the logistical, social, and economic impacts associated with the celebration.
In summary, November’s role as the designated month for Thanksgiving provides essential context for understanding the holiday’s historical, cultural, and societal significance. This connection was evident in 1995 and continues to shape the way the holiday is observed. Recognizing this link facilitates a deeper comprehension of the holiday’s enduring relevance and its impact on various facets of life, from personal traditions to broader economic trends.
2. 23rd
The significance of “23rd” in the context of “Thanksgiving 1995 calendar date” lies in its precision. Pinpointing the specific day within November 1995 provides a crucial anchor for historical reference. This numerical designation allows for accurate placement of the holiday within the broader timeline of the year and facilitates a more granular understanding of events and circumstances surrounding that particular Thanksgiving.
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Day of the Week Determination
Knowing Thanksgiving 1995 fell on the 23rd allows for determining the day of the week. Calendars confirm it was a Thursday. This information is vital for reconstructing schedules, understanding logistical arrangements for travel or gatherings, and appreciating the typical workday/holiday transition for individuals in 1995. For example, understanding the day of the week helps researchers analyze potential traffic patterns or media coverage related to the holiday period.
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Event Contextualization
The 23rd provides a precise marker for contextualizing events. Any occurrences documented as happening around Thanksgiving 1995 can be more accurately placed within the timeframe surrounding that specific date. This level of detail aids historical research and analysis, allowing for a clearer understanding of the chronological relationship between the holiday and other events of that era. For example, a news report mentioning a storm occurring “just before Thanksgiving” can be pinpointed more precisely using the date.
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Personal Memory Recall
Personal memories tied to Thanksgiving 1995 benefit from the specificity of the 23rd. Individuals recalling that holiday period can use the date to anchor their recollections, prompting more detailed memories about specific events, gatherings, or circumstances surrounding that particular Thanksgiving. This level of detail enhances the richness and accuracy of personal histories and familial narratives.
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Genealogical Research
For genealogical research, the 23rd provides a concrete point of reference. Family records, photographs, or other documented events linked to Thanksgiving 1995 gain added precision with the specific date. This allows researchers to create more accurate timelines of family histories and potentially uncover connections between family events and broader historical contexts of the time.
In summary, the “23rd” in “Thanksgiving 1995 calendar date” serves as a critical element for historical accuracy, personal recollection, and analytical precision. Understanding its significance provides a deeper, more nuanced insight into the holiday’s context within the broader landscape of 1995.
3. Thursday
The designation of Thursday as the day for Thanksgiving holds significant weight within the context of “Thanksgiving 1995 calendar date.” Understanding this connection requires exploring the historical and societal implications of a Thursday observance, as well as its practical impact on individuals and communities during that specific year.
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Weekday/Weekend Transition
A Thursday observance creates a bridge between the typical workweek and the weekend. In 1995, this mid-week placement likely influenced travel patterns and family gatherings. Many individuals would have needed to travel on Wednesday to reach their Thanksgiving destinations, potentially impacting workday productivity and transportation systems. The subsequent Friday became a de facto holiday extension for many, creating a four-day weekend and influencing retail activity and leisure pursuits.
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Travel Logistics
The Thursday placement necessitates specific travel arrangements. In 1995, this meant coordinating flights, train schedules, or road trips around a weekday. The concentration of travel on the Wednesday before Thanksgiving likely led to increased traffic congestion and logistical challenges for individuals and families. Understanding the Thursday placement helps contextualize the travel experiences of those celebrating Thanksgiving in 1995.
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Commercial and Economic Impact
The Thursday observance generates a specific pattern of commercial activity. Retailers in 1995 would have adjusted their operating hours to accommodate both pre-Thanksgiving shopping and the extended weekend following the holiday. This Thursday placement influenced consumer behavior, staffing needs, and overall economic activity surrounding the holiday period.
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Cultural and Social Norms
The Thursday tradition reflects established cultural and social norms. In 1995, families and communities planned their gatherings and activities around this designated day. The Thursday observance shaped the rhythm of daily life during the Thanksgiving period, influencing meal preparations, social interactions, and community events. Understanding this aspect provides insights into the cultural significance of the holiday within the context of 1995.
In conclusion, understanding the significance of “Thursday” in “Thanksgiving 1995 calendar date” provides a richer understanding of the holiday’s impact. The Thursday observance shaped travel patterns, economic activity, and social interactions within the specific context of 1995, reflecting established cultural norms while presenting unique logistical considerations for individuals and communities. This analysis allows for a more nuanced appreciation of the holiday’s historical and societal significance during that particular year.
4. 1995
The year 1995 provides the specific temporal context for “Thanksgiving 1995 calendar date.” Examining this year allows for a deeper understanding of the historical, cultural, and societal backdrop against which this particular Thanksgiving occurred. This exploration illuminates the connections between a specific date and the broader environment in which it existed.
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Technological Landscape
1995 marked a period of rapid technological advancement, particularly in the realm of personal computing and the internet. The nascent World Wide Web was beginning to gain traction, although its widespread adoption was still in its early stages. This context influences how people communicated, accessed information, and experienced the world around them. While email existed, it was not as ubiquitous as it is today, and social media platforms had not yet emerged. This technological landscape likely impacted how families connected during the Thanksgiving holiday, relying more on traditional phone calls and postal mail for communication.
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Political and Economic Climate
The political and economic climate of 1995 shaped the overall societal backdrop of that year’s Thanksgiving. The United States was experiencing a period of economic growth, and the political landscape was relatively stable. These factors likely influenced consumer confidence and spending patterns surrounding the holiday, potentially impacting travel and retail activity. Understanding the broader economic and political climate helps contextualize the experiences and anxieties surrounding Thanksgiving in 1995.
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Pop Culture and Entertainment
Popular culture and entertainment trends of 1995 provide further context for understanding the societal atmosphere surrounding that year’s Thanksgiving. Specific movies, music, television shows, and fashion trends prevalent at the time contributed to the cultural zeitgeist. Families gathering for Thanksgiving may have discussed popular films, listened to trending music, or watched televised events together. These cultural elements add another layer of understanding to the experiences and conversations surrounding the holiday in 1995.
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Historical Events
Specific historical events of 1995, both domestic and international, formed part of the backdrop against which Thanksgiving occurred. Major news stories, political developments, or social movements of that year likely influenced public discourse and shaped individual perspectives. Understanding these historical events adds depth and nuance to our understanding of the context surrounding Thanksgiving 1995. These events could have been topics of conversation at family gatherings or influenced the overall mood and atmosphere of the holiday.
Connecting these facets of 1995 to “Thanksgiving 1995 calendar date” offers a richer, more nuanced understanding of the holiday’s significance. By considering the technological landscape, political and economic climate, pop culture trends, and historical events of the time, one gains a more complete picture of the environment in which this specific Thanksgiving occurred. This contextualization enhances our appreciation for the historical and societal influences shaping the experiences and memories associated with Thanksgiving in 1995.
5. Fourth Thursday
The “Fourth Thursday” designation is integral to understanding “Thanksgiving 1995 calendar date.” This specific formulation, established by federal legislation in 1941, provides a consistent framework for determining the annual observance of Thanksgiving in the United States. Examining the implications of this “Fourth Thursday” rule reveals its impact on various aspects of the holiday, from travel logistics to commercial activity.
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Fixed yet Flexible Observance
The “Fourth Thursday” rule establishes a fixed yet flexible observance. While the month of November remains constant, the specific date shifts based on the calendar configuration of a given year. This flexibility ensures that Thanksgiving always falls on a Thursday, preserving its traditional weekday/weekend transition while accommodating the variable nature of the calendar. In 1995, this resulted in the holiday falling on November 23rd.
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Impact on Travel and Commerce
The “Fourth Thursday” placement influences travel patterns and commercial activity. Knowing the holiday consistently falls on a Thursday allows individuals and businesses to plan accordingly. In 1995, this predictability facilitated travel arrangements and informed retail strategies for the Thanksgiving period. The consistent Thursday observance creates a predictable surge in travel demand on the preceding Wednesday and influences consumer behavior during the extended weekend.
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Historical and Cultural Significance
The “Fourth Thursday” designation reflects a blend of historical precedent and evolving cultural norms. While the tradition of a late autumn harvest celebration predates the 1941 legislation, the formalized “Fourth Thursday” rule solidified a consistent national observance. In 1995, this established tradition continued, reflecting a shared understanding of when and how Thanksgiving is celebrated across the United States. The rule balances historical continuity with the practical needs of a modern society.
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Social and Familial Rhythms
The “Fourth Thursday” observance shapes social and familial rhythms. The consistent placement allows families and communities to establish recurring traditions and plan gatherings around a predictable date. In 1995, families likely organized travel plans, meal preparations, and other holiday activities based on this established pattern. This predictability reinforces the social importance of Thanksgiving as a time for shared experiences and strengthens familial bonds.
In conclusion, the “Fourth Thursday” designation provides a critical framework for understanding “Thanksgiving 1995 calendar date.” This rule, established through historical precedent and legislative action, shapes travel patterns, commercial activity, and social rhythms surrounding the holiday. Its application in 1995, resulting in the November 23rd observance, exemplifies the interplay between a fixed rule and the variable nature of the calendar, ultimately impacting how the holiday is experienced and remembered within its specific yearly context.
6. Holiday
The term “Holiday” in the context of “Thanksgiving 1995 calendar date” signifies a designated day of celebration and observance, distinct from regular working days. This designation carries cultural, social, and economic implications. Thanksgiving’s status as a national holiday in the United States imbues November 23rd, 1995, with specific significance. Businesses and government offices typically closed, allowing individuals time for travel, family gatherings, and traditional observances. This disruption of the regular workweek underscores the holiday’s societal importance and its role in facilitating shared cultural experiences.
Thanksgiving’s designation as a holiday provides a structured opportunity for communal celebration and reflection. Families often travel long distances to reunite for Thanksgiving, reinforcing social bonds and fostering a sense of shared heritage. Traditional meals, parades, and other festive activities contribute to the holiday’s distinct cultural identity. In 1995, these traditions continued, shaped by both long-standing customs and evolving social trends. The holiday’s established place within the calendar provided a predictable framework for these gatherings and rituals, reinforcing their cultural significance.
The “Holiday” designation also carries economic implications. Increased travel during the Thanksgiving period affects transportation industries, while retail businesses experience heightened activity as consumers prepare for the holiday. In 1995, these economic ripples were evident, reflecting the interplay between cultural traditions and consumer behavior. The holiday’s placement within the calendar year influences purchasing patterns and contributes to broader economic trends. Understanding the “Holiday” component of “Thanksgiving 1995 calendar date” provides insights into both the cultural significance of the celebration and its tangible impact on various sectors of society.
7. Autumn
The relationship between “Autumn” and “Thanksgiving 1995 calendar date” is fundamental to understanding the holiday’s significance. Autumn, as the season of harvest, provides the historical and thematic context for Thanksgiving celebrations. The holiday’s placement in late November aligns with the conclusion of the harvest season in North America, a time traditionally marked by expressions of gratitude for the year’s bounty. In 1995, this seasonal alignment remained central to the holiday’s meaning, connecting contemporary observances to long-standing agricultural traditions. This connection is evident in traditional Thanksgiving meals, which often feature seasonal produce like pumpkins, squash, and cranberries. The imagery of autumn, with its changing leaves and cooler temperatures, permeates Thanksgiving decorations and cultural representations.
Autumn’s influence on Thanksgiving extends beyond symbolic representation. The season’s shorter days and cooler temperatures contributed to the atmosphere surrounding the holiday in 1995. Travel conditions, clothing choices, and even culinary preferences were likely influenced by the autumnal weather. For example, families traveling for Thanksgiving may have encountered late autumn storms, while traditional Thanksgiving dishes, often served warm and hearty, provided comfort against the cooler temperatures. This practical impact of autumn on Thanksgiving underscores the interwoven nature of the season and the holiday experience.
In summary, autumn provides an essential backdrop for understanding “Thanksgiving 1995 calendar date.” The season’s association with harvest and its influence on weather, food, and travel contribute significantly to the holiday’s meaning and overall experience. Recognizing this connection deepens our understanding of Thanksgiving 1995, placing it within a broader historical and cultural framework that extends beyond a single date on the calendar. The intertwined relationship between autumn and Thanksgiving enriches the holiday’s significance and connects contemporary observances to enduring agricultural traditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries regarding the date of Thanksgiving in 1995, providing clarity and dispelling potential misconceptions.
Question 1: Why is the specific date of Thanksgiving in 1995 important?
Pinpointing the exact date, November 23rd, allows accurate historical referencing, contextualizing events and personal memories associated with that specific time. This precision aids genealogical research, historical analysis, and understanding the social and cultural climate of the mid-1990s.
Question 2: How is the date of Thanksgiving determined each year?
Since 1941, Thanksgiving has been observed annually on the fourth Thursday of November, as established by federal legislation. This formula ensures a consistent yet flexible date, accommodating the changing calendar while preserving the traditional Thursday observance.
Question 3: How does the Thursday observance impact daily life?
The Thursday observance creates a mid-week break, influencing travel patterns, work schedules, and family gatherings. It typically results in increased travel on the preceding Wednesday and creates an extended weekend for many, impacting both commercial activity and personal leisure time.
Question 4: How does the autumn season relate to Thanksgiving?
Autumn, as the harvest season, provides the historical and thematic context for Thanksgiving. The holiday’s late November placement aligns with the traditional harvest’s end, symbolizing gratitude for the year’s bounty. This seasonal connection influences culinary traditions, decorative motifs, and the overall atmosphere of the holiday.
Question 5: What distinguishes Thanksgiving 1995 from other years’ observances?
While the core traditions remain consistent, each Thanksgiving occurs within a unique historical and cultural context. Thanksgiving 1995 reflects the specific technological landscape, political climate, social trends, and pop culture influences of the mid-1990s, distinguishing it from other years’ celebrations.
Question 6: Where can one find a 1995 calendar to verify the date?
Physical copies of 1995 calendars can often be found in archives, libraries, or personal collections. Numerous online resources also offer access to digitized versions of 1995 calendars, providing easy verification of the November 23rd date for Thanksgiving.
Understanding the specifics of Thanksgiving 1995 allows for a deeper appreciation of its historical context and cultural significance. The date, November 23rd, serves as a gateway to exploring the broader social, political, and economic landscape of the mid-1990s.
This clarified understanding of Thanksgiving 1995 provides a foundation for exploring additional related topics, such as popular traditions, family history research, or broader historical analysis of the period.
Tips for Research Using a 1995 Thanksgiving Date
Utilizing a specific date like that of Thanksgiving 1995, November 23rd, offers a valuable anchor for historical research. The following tips provide guidance on maximizing the effectiveness of this date in various research contexts.
Tip 1: Genealogical Exploration: Pinpointing family gatherings or events around Thanksgiving 1995 provides a concrete timeframe for genealogical research. Review family photos, letters, or journals for mentions of Thanksgiving 1995 to uncover details about family members and their lives at that time. This date can be a starting point for tracing lineages and understanding family traditions.
Tip 2: Historical Contextualization: Utilize the date to understand the backdrop of events occurring around Thanksgiving 1995. Research news archives, periodicals, and historical databases to gain insights into the political, social, and economic climate of the time. This contextualization adds depth to historical analysis.
Tip 3: Personal Narrative Reconstruction: Encourage individuals to reflect on their personal memories associated with Thanksgiving 1995. Prompting recollections based on a specific date can unlock detailed memories about family gatherings, travel experiences, or significant life events surrounding the holiday. These personal narratives enrich family histories.
Tip 4: Cultural Trend Analysis: Explore popular culture trends prevalent during Thanksgiving 1995. Analyze movies, music, television shows, and fashion styles popular at the time to understand the cultural landscape. This information illuminates the social and entertainment environment influencing experiences during that period.
Tip 5: Technological Examination: Consider the state of technology in 1995, particularly regarding communication and information access. The internet was in its early stages, influencing how people connected and shared information. Understanding this technological context provides insight into how families communicated during the holiday period and how news and events were disseminated.
Tip 6: Economic Analysis: Investigate the economic climate of 1995, including consumer spending patterns and travel trends surrounding Thanksgiving. Analyze retail sales figures, travel statistics, and economic indicators to understand how the holiday influenced economic activity during that period.
Tip 7: Local Community Focus: Explore local community events and activities associated with Thanksgiving 1995. Research local newspapers, community archives, and historical societies to discover details about local celebrations, festivals, or charitable initiatives surrounding the holiday. This localized perspective provides unique insights into community life.
Utilizing these research tips, centered around the specific date of Thanksgiving 1995, allows for a deeper and more nuanced understanding of the historical, cultural, and personal dimensions of this period. This focused approach unlocks valuable insights into the past.
This exploration of Thanksgiving 1995 provides a framework for broader historical investigation and encourages further research into related areas of interest.
Conclusion
This exploration of the date of Thanksgiving in 1995, specifically November 23rd, reveals the significance of precise historical markers. Examining this date provides a lens through which to understand the broader context of the mid-1990s, encompassing technological advancements, economic conditions, cultural trends, and historical events. Understanding the “Fourth Thursday” convention, established in 1941, clarifies the holiday’s consistent yet flexible placement within the November calendar. The interplay between the autumn season and the holiday’s agricultural roots adds depth to its cultural meaning. Analysis of the “23rd” as a specific day within the month allows for detailed historical reconstruction, facilitating genealogical research, personal memory recall, and a nuanced understanding of events surrounding the holiday period.
The precise date of Thanksgiving 1995 serves as a valuable entry point for broader historical inquiry. Further research leveraging this specific date can yield deeper insights into individual experiences, familial traditions, and the evolving cultural landscape of the United States. Continued exploration of such specific historical markers contributes to a richer understanding of the past and its connection to the present.