Summary
President Donald Trump pardoned two turkeys named Gobble and Waddle, continuing a long-standing tradition at the White House. The ceremony is part of a Thanksgiving custom with a history that includes several tales and events involving past presidents.
Key Facts
- President Trump pardoned two turkeys from North Carolina named Gobble and Waddle.
- The Thanksgiving turkey pardon is a tradition at the White House.
- Abraham Lincoln is often credited with the first turkey pardon in 1863 after his son asked for mercy for the bird.
- President Harry Truman was the first to receive a turkey in an official White House event.
- Truman's turkey presentation was a response to his "Poultryless Thursdays" initiative after World War II.
- President John F. Kennedy received a turkey in 1963 but did not formally pardon it.
- The turkey pardon tradition was officially established by President George H.W. Bush in 1989.
- President Trump mentioned the importance of family and friends during the ceremony.
