The fourth Thursday of November is traditionally designated as the date for the annual Thanksgiving holiday in the United States. This fixed placement within the month ensures a consistent, albeit shifting, calendar date each year.
Understanding the historical progression of holidays and their correlation to specific dates provides a foundational basis for planning and coordinating events. Knowing the date allows for accurate scheduling of travel, family gatherings, and related activities. The consistency of the holiday’s placement facilitates preparation well in advance.
Determining the specific occurrence of this event for any given year requires identifying the day the month began on. Then, subsequently calculating when the fourth Thursday will happen.
1. Thursday
The day of the week, “Thursday,” holds a fundamental significance in the context of Thanksgiving. It is the defining characteristic of the holidays annual timing in the United States. The holiday is explicitly celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November.
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Fixed Day of the Week
The designation of Thanksgiving as the fourth Thursday provides a predictable framework. This annual recurrence on the same day of the week allows for consistent long-term planning by individuals, families, and organizations. In 2012, this meant that the date was specifically positioned as a Thursday, influencing travel patterns and event schedules.
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Calendar Dependence
While the day of the week is fixed, the specific calendar date varies each year. Determining the precise date necessitates calculating which Thursday corresponds to the fourth iteration within November. The start date of November dictates the location of “Thursday” on a specific date in each year. Without the knowledge of “what day was thanksgiving 2012”, date cannot be determined.
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Planning Implications
The guaranteed observance on a Thursday directly impacts logistical planning. Travel arrangements are often structured around weekends adjacent to the holiday, maximizing available time for reunions and celebrations. The “Thursday” aspect defines the scope and nature of these considerations.
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Historical Context
The consistent observance of Thanksgiving on a Thursday establishes a link across different years. Each celebration in the past, present, and future will happen on Thursday. This offers temporal connections between generations and historical periods. Knowing “what day was thanksgiving 2012” highlights the unchanging characteristic of the holiday day.
In conclusion, the “Thursday” component of the Thanksgiving holiday serves as a crucial anchor for calendrical organization and cultural practices. Its fixed position on the fourth “Thursday” of November directly shapes the planning, logistics, and historical context associated with the celebration. Thanksgiving date in 2012 is the 22nd, which makes it occur on the “Thursday”.
2. November
The month of “November” serves as a defining element in understanding when Thanksgiving occurs. This is due to the established tradition of celebrating the holiday on the fourth Thursday within “November”. Its presence dictates the timeframe in which the holiday can fall, creating a temporal boundary for the celebration.
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Monthly Boundary
“November” provides a firm temporal boundary for the observance. Thanksgiving cannot occur in any other month. This restriction focuses planning efforts within a specific 30-day window. This monthly boundary plays a part in discovering “what day was thanksgiving 2012”.
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Calculatory Element
Determining the specific date relies on understanding the calendar structure of “November” in a given year. Calculating the day of the week for the first day of “November” is a prerequisite to finding the fourth Thursday. Only inside “November”, we are able to find out what is the exact “what day was thanksgiving 2012”.
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Cultural Association
“November” is deeply culturally associated with Thanksgiving. Media, marketing, and societal anticipation build throughout the month, culminating in the holiday. The association of “November” and “what day was thanksgiving 2012” cannot be separated.
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Historical Marker
Referring to past Thanksgiving dates invariably invokes “November”. When discussing historical events or traditions related to the holiday, “November” becomes an inherent reference point, linking the specific celebration back to its month of origin. Without “November”, finding “what day was thanksgiving 2012” is impossible.
In conclusion, “November” is inextricably linked to Thanksgiving. It is not just the month in which the holiday occurs. It defines the temporal limits, influences the calculations required to pinpoint the date, strengthens cultural associations, and acts as a historical marker for recalling past celebrations. “November” is the where to find the answer of “what day was thanksgiving 2012”.
3. Twenty-Second
The date “Twenty-Second” represents the specific day in November on which Thanksgiving was celebrated in 2012. Its relevance lies in its precise identification of the holiday’s occurrence within that particular year, providing a definitive answer to the query of when Thanksgiving took place.
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Calendar Specificity
The designation of “Twenty-Second” pinpoints a singular day within the entire calendar year. This removes any ambiguity regarding the timing of the holiday in 2012. Without it, the exact celebration day remains unknown.
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Date Calculation Result
“Twenty-Second” is not an arbitrary number, but rather the product of a calculation based on the rule that Thanksgiving falls on the fourth Thursday of November. This value is derived by determining the day of the week on which November 1st occurred and subsequently counting forward to identify the fourth Thursday. This result highlights the importance of the date.
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Historical Record
“Twenty-Second” becomes part of the historical record for Thanksgiving celebrations. Future analyses of Thanksgiving dates will use “Twenty-Second” in 2012 as a fixed reference point. It ensures that historical contexts are considered correctly.
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Planning and Recollection
For those who celebrated Thanksgiving in 2012, “Twenty-Second” signifies the day on which gatherings, meals, and traditions took place. The date serves as a marker to remember previous experiences.
In summary, “Twenty-Second” serves as the precise answer to determining when Thanksgiving was celebrated in 2012. It highlights the need for accurate date calculation while serving as a crucial point in historical record. It facilitates the planning and recollection processes for future generations. The answer “what day was thanksgiving 2012” will always be “Twenty-Second” in November.
4. 2012
The year “2012” serves as the temporal anchor for precisely determining the date of Thanksgiving for that specific annual cycle. It establishes the context within which the calendrical calculations must be performed to arrive at the correct date. Without the specification of “2012”, the question “what day was thanksgiving 2012” would be ambiguous, lacking the necessary temporal constraint. It acts as the cause to identify the effect – the date of Thanksgiving.
The importance of “2012” lies in its function as a definitive temporal marker, permitting the unique identification of a specific Thanksgiving celebration. As an example, consider the varying dates of Thanksgiving across different years; in 2011, it was November 24th, and in 2013, it was November 28th. The explicit inclusion of “2012” in the query refines the scope, allowing one to disregard irrelevant data points from other years and focus only on the applicable calendrical configuration. Therefore, “2012” is the most important part of answering the question “what day was thanksgiving 2012”.
In conclusion, “2012” is critical to answering “what day was thanksgiving 2012”. It is the crucial input required to fix the temporal context and initiate the date resolution process. Challenges in historical date ascertainment often stem from a lack of precise temporal demarcation, underscoring the practical significance of specifying the year when inquiring about specific dates and holidays. The broader theme of date precision is supported through the year.
5. Fourth Thursday
The designation “Fourth Thursday” is the core determinant in establishing the annual date of Thanksgiving in the United States. Understanding its implications is critical to answering “what day was thanksgiving 2012.” The following facets elaborate on this central concept.
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Defining Thanksgiving’s Date
The phrase “Fourth Thursday” provides the structural framework for Thanksgiving’s placement within the calendar. The holiday is officially observed on the fourth Thursday of November each year. This eliminates ambiguity by anchoring it to a specific weekday and week within the month, directly dictating the date for that year. It is the most important part for “what day was thanksgiving 2012”.
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Calendrical Calculation
Determining the exact date requires a calendrical calculation. One must ascertain the day of the week on which November 1st falls and then count forward to locate the fourth Thursday. For example, if November 1st is a Sunday, the fourth Thursday would fall on November 22nd. This emphasizes the arithmetic foundation of the Thanksgiving date.
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Historical Consistency
The “Fourth Thursday” principle ensures a degree of historical consistency, allowing for comparison of Thanksgiving dates across different years. Although the exact date shifts annually, the “Fourth Thursday” rule maintains a reliable anchor point. This facilitates historical analyses and comparisons of Thanksgiving celebrations over time, because it only occur on “Fourth Thursday”.
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Impact on Planning
The “Fourth Thursday” designation greatly influences planning for travel, family gatherings, and retail activities. The consistent placement of Thanksgiving on a Thursday creates a predictable long weekend, impacting travel patterns and consumer behavior. It provides consistent for different industries based on the “what day was thanksgiving 2012”.
In summary, the “Fourth Thursday” element is fundamental to answering “what day was thanksgiving 2012”. It anchors the holiday to a specific point within the annual calendar, requires calculations to determine the exact date, ensures historical consistency, and influences logistical planning. It is the root of all for “what day was thanksgiving 2012”.
6. Annual Holiday
The designation of Thanksgiving as an “Annual Holiday” establishes a framework of regularity and societal expectation, influencing the anticipation and preparation for the event each year. Its “annual” nature is integral to how individuals and institutions interact with the holiday, and therefore to understanding “what day was thanksgiving 2012”.
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Established Tradition
As an “Annual Holiday,” Thanksgiving benefits from a long-standing tradition, solidifying its place within the cultural calendar. This repetition each year ensures its continued observance and reinforces associated rituals. The consistent recurrence allows families and communities to plan and prepare for the event, creating a sense of continuity. Its established date as an “annual holiday” ensures that the answer to “what day was thanksgiving 2012” remains relevant.
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Predictable Scheduling
The “Annual Holiday” status allows for predictable scheduling. The knowledge that Thanksgiving will occur each year allows individuals, organizations, and businesses to prepare in advance. Knowing the “annual holiday” and tradition ensures preparation for “what day was thanksgiving 2012”.
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Economic Impact
The “Annual Holiday” generates significant economic activity. Retail sales, travel, and food production are all influenced by the predictable surge in demand associated with Thanksgiving. The annual nature of the holiday allows businesses to forecast and manage their inventory, staffing, and marketing efforts. Businesses will ensure they know “what day was thanksgiving 2012” to prepare well for their sales.
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Cultural Reinforcement
The “Annual Holiday” reinforces cultural values and traditions. Thanksgiving is associated with themes of gratitude, family, and community. The annual observance serves as a reminder of these values, reinforcing them across generations. Annual reinforcement ensures the “what day was thanksgiving 2012” question remains relevant for family gatherings.
The “Annual Holiday” status of Thanksgiving carries several implications. It creates a predictable and culturally significant event. This influences planning, commerce, and the transmission of cultural values. Each year provides an opportunity to celebrate these shared traditions, emphasizing the lasting relevance of “what day was thanksgiving 2012”.
7. United States
The “United States” provides the jurisdictional context for the query “what day was thanksgiving 2012.” Thanksgiving is a national holiday primarily celebrated within the borders of the “United States,” making the country the defining geopolitical factor for the question. Understanding its role is essential to correctly interpret and respond to the inquiry.
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National Holiday Designation
Thanksgiving holds the status of a federal holiday within the “United States,” meaning its observance is mandated by law for government institutions and widely recognized by private entities. This designation legally mandates a specific date for the holiday each year. The answer to “what day was thanksgiving 2012” is therefore governed by the national laws and customs specific to the “United States”.
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Cultural Significance
The holiday possesses deep cultural significance within the “United States,” rooted in historical narratives and traditions unique to the nation. The way Thanksgiving is celebrated, the customs followed, and the meaning attributed to the holiday are specific to the “United States” cultural landscape. The question of “what day was thanksgiving 2012” carries with it the weight of this cultural context.
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Federal Calendar Adherence
The “United States” adheres to a specific federal calendar. This calendar determines the placement of holidays, including Thanksgiving. The date is calculated based on rules set within the “United States.” Adherence to this calendar ensures that Thanksgiving occurs on the same day across all states and federal territories. The response to “what day was thanksgiving 2012” is therefore consistent throughout the “United States”.
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Historical Origin
Thanksgiving’s origins are intertwined with the history of the “United States,” tracing back to early colonial settlements and evolving through presidential proclamations. Understanding the historical development of the holiday within the “United States” provides context for its continued celebration and its place in the national identity. This influences the manner in which “what day was thanksgiving 2012” is interpreted and remembered.
In summary, the “United States” provides the essential context for “what day was thanksgiving 2012.” It defines the legal framework, cultural significance, calendar adherence, and historical origins that shape the holiday’s observance. The date of Thanksgiving in 2012 is only meaningful within the specific national context of the “United States.”
8. Specific Date
The concept of a “Specific Date” is paramount when addressing the query “what day was thanksgiving 2012”. The question seeks a precise point in time, not a range or approximation. “what day was thanksgiving 2012” requires a singular and definitive answer. The absence of a “Specific Date” renders the question unanswered and lacking in practical value.
The “Specific Date”, in this instance, November 22, 2012, is the culmination of a calendrical calculation rooted in the tradition of celebrating Thanksgiving on the fourth Thursday of November in the United States. To illustrate, consider the practical implications: travel arrangements, family gatherings, and retail promotions all hinge on knowing this “Specific Date”. Without it, logistical planning becomes impossible, highlighting the causal relationship between the “Specific Date” and the capacity to effectively organize activities around the holiday. For example, airlines adjust their schedules, families coordinate travel plans, and stores prepare for sales, all predicated on knowledge of the “Specific Date”.
In conclusion, the “Specific Date” is not merely a component of “what day was thanksgiving 2012,” but its very essence. It transforms a general question into a concrete piece of information. While the tradition of celebrating Thanksgiving on the fourth Thursday of November provides a framework, the “Specific Date” provides the definitive answer. Its acquisition enables practical applications, historical understanding, and a clear articulation of when the holiday occurred, and what was involved. Its value derives not just from the data point itself, but its effect and importance to others.
Frequently Asked Questions about “what day was thanksgiving 2012”
The following questions address common inquiries related to the specific date of Thanksgiving in 2012, clarifying the calendrical and historical context.
Question 1: If Thanksgiving is always on the fourth Thursday of November, why is it necessary to ask “what day was thanksgiving 2012?”
While the “fourth Thursday” rule provides a framework, determining the exact date requires knowing the day of the week on which November 1st fell in that specific year. The question serves to resolve the date from general knowledge into a concrete fact.
Question 2: How does the date of Thanksgiving in 2012 compare to other years?
The date varies annually based on the calendar configuration. Thanksgiving in 2011 occurred on November 24th, whereas in 2013, it took place on November 28th. The specific date in 2012, November 22nd, serves as a fixed data point for comparison.
Question 3: Is the date of Thanksgiving in 2012 different in other countries?
Thanksgiving, as traditionally observed, is primarily a United States holiday. Other countries may have their own Thanksgiving-like celebrations with different dates and historical origins. The date of November 22nd, 2012, specifically applies to the United States observance.
Question 4: Why is knowing the exact date of Thanksgiving in past years important?
Knowing the specific date provides historical context, facilitates accurate record-keeping, and enables the analysis of trends related to travel, commerce, and cultural practices associated with the holiday. Historical research and comparison require specific dates.
Question 5: Can the date of Thanksgiving in 2012 be determined without a calendar?
Yes, it can be calculated using knowledge that Thanksgiving falls on the fourth Thursday in the month of November. By knowing the start date of the month (November 1st), it can be determined and the date will fall on the 22nd.
Question 6: What resources provide definitive information regarding the dates of past Thanksgivings?
Official government calendars, historical records, and reputable almanacs are reliable sources for confirming past Thanksgiving dates. These resources offer accurate and verifiable information, preventing the propagation of incorrect information.
Understanding the specifics surrounding Thanksgiving’s date, including the impact of “what day was thanksgiving 2012”, requires a combination of calendrical knowledge, historical awareness, and credible resources. The FAQ clarified such specific information related to 2012’s Thanksgiving.
Transitioning to a discussion of related holidays and their historical context will further expand understanding.
Tips for Remembering and Calculating Thanksgiving Dates Based on 2012’s Example
Utilizing the knowledge that Thanksgiving 2012 occurred on November 22nd as a reference point can improve calendrical calculations and holiday planning.
Tip 1: Establish a Reference Year: “what day was thanksgiving 2012” can act as a known data point. Knowing Thanksgiving fell on November 22nd, 2012, provides a benchmark for calculating subsequent or preceding years. Note if there is a leap year between reference and target year, such as 2012 to 2016.
Tip 2: Utilize Calendrical Patterns: Note that the day of the week for a specific date will advance by one day each year (two days in leap years). Understanding this calendrical progression allows for extrapolation from the 2012 date.
Tip 3: Consult Reliable Calendars: Verify calculations against a reliable calendar source. This mitigates the risk of error and ensures accuracy, particularly when dealing with leap years.
Tip 4: Employ Online Date Calculators: Leverage online date calculators to determine the day of the week for November 1st of any given year. This initial step is crucial for identifying the “fourth Thursday” and thus, the Thanksgiving date.
Tip 5: Memorize Key Dates: Commit to memory a few key Thanksgiving dates from different years, including “what day was thanksgiving 2012.” These benchmarks provide readily available reference points, improving estimation skills.
Tip 6: Develop a Mnemonic Device: Create a mnemonic device that links Thanksgiving to the fourth Thursday of November. This can aid in recall and prevent confusion with other holidays.
Tip 7: Document Date Calculations: Maintain a record of Thanksgiving date calculations for different years. This creates a readily available reference, minimizing the need to recalculate dates in the future.
Applying these strategies enhances the ability to accurately determine past, present, and future Thanksgiving dates, building upon the “what day was thanksgiving 2012” data point.
Moving to a discussion of relevant sources will further strengthen expertise.
Conclusion
The preceding exploration has established the precise date of Thanksgiving 2012 as November 22nd. The analysis has underscored the interrelation between calendrical rules, cultural traditions, and historical context in defining this date. Understanding the factors that determined this occurrence is essential for accurate record-keeping and historical understanding. This information should serve the purpose of expanding knowledge and facilitate future research.
The ability to pinpoint “what day was thanksgiving 2012” underscores the importance of calendar literacy and historical precision. This understanding aids in comprehending our shared past and promotes responsible engagement with cultural traditions. Continued diligence in preserving and disseminating accurate historical data is essential for future generations.
