The Pilgrims' Real Thanksgiving Lesson

Contrary to popular belief, the first Thanksgiving feast did not instantly solve the Pilgrims' chronic food shortages. According to historian Benjamin Powell, the Pilgrims continued to face food shortages for three years after their first bountiful harvest. The issue was not caused by bad weather or lack of farming knowledge, but rather by their communal property rights system.

When Plymouth Plantation was founded in 1620, food and supplies were collectively owned and distributed based on "equality" and "need." This system led to little food production, as residents received the same rations regardless of their contribution to farming. Governor William Bradford documented the discontent caused by this system, with able-bodied men resenting working for others without recompense.

Realizing the need for change, the colony implemented a new economic system in 1623. Each family was assigned a private parcel of land and allowed to keep all they grew for themselves. This shift away from communal ownership led to increased productivity and more corn planting, as individuals now had personal incentives to work hard.

While the first Thanksgiving feast was a significant event, it did not immediately solve the Pilgrims' food shortages. It was the shift towards private property rights and individual responsibility that ultimately improved their economic situation.