November Reading Comprehension Challenge

Kendra Solis

The Thanksgiving Proclamation: A Lesson in Gratitude and Governance

While the origins of Thanksgiving can be traced to ancient harvest festivals, the American tradition holds a unique place in our national narrative. In 1789, President George Washington issued the first Thanksgiving Proclamation, designating November 26th as a day of "public thanksgiving and prayer" to acknowledge the blessings of the past year. This act established a precedent for future presidents, with varying degrees of observance throughout history.

However, it was during the tumultuous Civil War era that Thanksgiving gained new significance. In the midst of national division and strife, President Abraham Lincoln sought to foster unity and resilience. On October 3, 1863, he issued a proclamation urging citizens to set aside the last Thursday in November "as a day of Thanksgiving and Praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the Heavens."1 Lincoln's proclamation emphasized gratitude for the nation's blessings, even in the face of adversity, and called for a spirit of reconciliation and hope.

This historical act offers valuable insights for aspiring legal professionals. It highlights the power of law and leadership to shape cultural practices and national identity. Furthermore, it underscores the importance of gratitude and reflection, even in challenging times. As future lawyers and leaders, cultivating these qualities can foster empathy, resilience, and a commitment to serving the greater good.

RC Practice Questions:

1. Main Point: What is the primary purpose of this passage? a) To trace the historical origins of Thanksgiving. b) To analyze the legal implications of Thanksgiving proclamations. c) To highlight the significance of Thanksgiving in American history and its relevance to aspiring lawyers. d) To compare and contrast Thanksgiving celebrations in different eras.
   
   
2. Inference: What can be inferred about Lincoln's motivations for issuing his Thanksgiving proclamation? a) He primarily sought to boost his popularity during a challenging election year. b) He aimed to promote unity and national healing during a time of deep division. c) He wanted to establish a permanent national holiday to stimulate the economy. d) He was pressured by religious leaders to formally recognize a day of Thanksgiving.
   
   
3. Function: How does the example of Lincoln's proclamation serve the author's argument? a) It provides a counterpoint to Washington's earlier proclamation. b) It illustrates the potential for law and leadership to influence cultural values. c) It undermines the notion that Thanksgiving has always been a unifying holiday. d) It emphasizes the purely religious origins of Thanksgiving.
   
   
4. Vocabulary in Context: What does the word "beneficent" mean as used in the passage? a) Powerful b) Generous c) Wise d) Forgiving
   
   

This passage provides an opportunity to practice key Reading Comprehension skills for the LSAT, including identifying the main point, making inferences, understanding the function of specific details, and interpreting vocabulary in context. Good luck!