This is a historical proclamation of a National Day of Thanksgiving. Students are asked to read for meaning in context and discern possible motivations of the writer.
Reading for Understanding
Write a definition of the term or phrase below shown in bold type using context clues in the reading.
"Whereas it becomes us humbly to approach the throne..."
Write a definition of the term or phrase below shown in bold type using context clues in the reading.
"for his protection to them and to their posterity amid difficulties and dangers"
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"that the earth hath produced her increase in abundance, blessing the labors of the husbandmen"
Write a definition of the term or phrase below shown in bold type using context clues in the reading.
"that the earth hath produced her increase in abundance, blessing the labors of the husbandmen"
Write a definition of the term or phrase below shown in bold type using context clues in the reading.
"that he hath prospered our arms and those of our ally"
Write a definition of the term or phrase below shown in bold type using context clues in the reading.
"pointed their swords to victory and led them in triumph over the bulwarks of the foe"
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"that he hath gone with those who went out into the wilderness against the savage tribes"
Write a definition of the term or phrase below shown in bold type using context clues in the reading.
"given success to those who sought the enemy on the face of the deep"
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"he would be graciously pleased to influence our public councils, and bless them with wisdom from on high"
Write a definition of the term or phrase below shown in bold type using context clues in the reading.
"that he would go forth with our hosts and crown our arms with victory"
Write a definition of the term or phrase below shown in bold type using context clues in the reading.
"A strict observance to be paid by the Army to this proclamation and the Chaplains are to prepare and deliver discourses suitable to it."
What war were we fighting when this proclamation was written?
What was George Washington's official position when he wrote this proclamation?
Select and describe at least four blessings from the reading that should inspire our gratitude.
When was the day of Thanksgiving to be held?
What were people in the "several states" supposed to do on this day?
What did Washington hope that God would do to our enemies?
Who was "our illustrious ally" that we prayed for God's protection on?
List and describe at least four things we were directed to pray for.
Upon what basis was Washington hoping that the independence of the United States would be established?
What does this proclamation tell you about George Washington?