As we gear up for Thanksgiving, it’s time to slice through the myths and get to the meat of why turkey is the star of our holiday tables. It’s not just about tradition; there’s history, happenstance, and a whole lot of haggling over birds involved. Let’s talk turkey and debunk some myths that have been sticking around longer than your auntie’s leftover cranberry sauce.

Myth #1: The Pilgrims and Native Americans Had Turkey at the First Thanksgiving

While the image of the Pilgrims and Native Americans sitting down for a peaceful meal featuring a golden, perfectly-roasted turkey might warm our hearts, historical records beg to differ. The first Thanksgiving feast in 1621 likely didn’t feature turkey at the center. Sure, they had fowl, but it was probably more duck and goose action than turkey. Turkey became the go-to bird later on due to its size and the fact that it was uniquely North American.

Myth #2: Turkey Was Chosen Because It’s a Native American Bird

While it’s true that turkeys are native to North America and were used by Native Americans, their selection as the Thanksgiving centerpiece isn’t solely about cultural heritage. The real deal is much more practical. By the 19th century, turkeys were simply the right size to feed a family gathering without leaving too little or too much leftover, unlike chickens (too small) or cows (way too big). It was about practicality—turkey fit the bill perfectly for a feast.

Myth #3: Eating Turkey Is a Centuries-Old Tradition

Actually, the turkey tradition as we know it was really pushed by none other than magazine editors in the 1800s. Sarah Josepha Hale, the editor of "Godey's Lady's Book," a popular magazine, campaigned for years to make Thanksgiving a national holiday, which Abraham Lincoln declared in 1863. Hale published recipes and menus for Thanksgiving, which always featured turkey. Thanks to the power of the press, turkey became as synonymous with Thanksgiving as pumpkin pie.

Real-Life Scenario: Let’s say you’re planning this year’s Thanksgiving menu. You’re at the supermarket, eyeing that big, beautiful turkey and wondering, "Do I really need to get this bird every year?" Well, history says no, but tradition says yes. Think of it this way—choosing turkey isn’t just about following tradition blindly. It’s about celebrating a uniquely American bird that brings us together. Plus, it’s a fantastic excuse to whip out your special seasoning that everyone raves about at the dinner table!

The Takeaway

Choosing turkey for Thanksgiving taps into something deeper than just habit. It’s about embracing a symbol of abundance and unity, and let’s be honest, it’s a fabulous vehicle for all kinds of delicious sides and seasonings. Whether you’re here for the tradition, the taste, or the tall tales, turkey day is about coming together and creating memories around the table.

So, as you prep your Thanksgiving feast this year, chuckle a little at the myths, but remember the real reasons we cherish these traditions. It’s about family, food, and the unique ways we celebrate our heritage and make it our own, one turkey (or tofu, if that’s your jam) at a time. And if anyone questions why turkey is on the menu, just tell them it’s because you like your myths served with a side of mashed potatoes and gravy—seasoned by tradition, spiced by history.