Thanksgiving in Grenada
In Grenada, the 25th of October is observed as the country’s Thanksgiving. This date commemorates October 25, 1983, as the day the U.S. military rescued the country from a communist takeover and restored the country’s constitutional government. It is such an important day that it is observed as a public holiday.
Grenada (Public holiday)This essentially means that the country’s populace has a much-needed day off, and non-essential government agencies, businesses, and schools are closed. Much like American Thanksgiving, it is also a day when many people enjoy communal meals with their families and friends. It is also a day on which many American dishes can be enjoyed on this West Indian island.
The History of Thanksgiving in Grenada
During the colonial expansion of the 17th century, many of the indigenous people of Grenada were killed by British colonists, and the island then proceeded to establish plantations. These plantations were staffed by the forced labor of African slaves who were brought to the country to work them.
During the 18th century, Great Britain and France disputed control over the island, but the British would eventually win control of it. It would remain a part of Great Britain until the country won independence in 1974. Eric Gairy would become the country’s first Prime Minister.
Gairy’s victory in the elections of 1976 wasn’t accepted by everyone, however. Opposition parties refused to accept the result, and they then accused the government of election fraud. In 1979, Gairy was deposed in a coup by the People’s Revolutionary Government, and Maurice Bishop declared himself to be the Prime Minister.
In 1983, a coup backed by the Grenadian Army took control of the country and placed Bishop under house arrest. Large demonstrations took place after his arrest, and he was briefly freed during those demonstrations. However, he was eventually rearrested and then executed by firing squad.
The U.S. and allies saw the killing of Bishop as only the beginning of a new communist state that was sure to arise. That is when a coalition of U.S. and Caribbean forces invaded Grenada to oust the government on October 25, 1983. Once the government was ousted, and an interim administration was installed, foreign troops left the country.
Observing Thanksgiving in Grenada
This holiday is observed with meals shared with loved ones and with a day off for the general public. Both traditional Grenadian and American Thanksgiving dishes are enjoyed on this day.
Grenada (Public holiday)
