When did Black Friday start and why has it become such a significant event in the United States? Black Friday, which falls on the day after Thanksgiving, has its origins deeply rooted in American retail history. The term itself, “Black Friday,” is believed to have originated in the 1960s, although the actual day of shopping has been celebrated for much longer.
Black Friday’s roots can be traced back to the 19th century, when stores would open on the day after Thanksgiving to attract shoppers. However, it was not until the mid-20th century that the day gained widespread recognition. One of the most popular theories about why Black Friday is called “Black Friday” is that it represents the point in the year when retailers begin to turn a profit, or “go into the black,” financially.
During the Great Depression, the term “Black Friday” was used to describe the heavy traffic and chaos that occurred in Philadelphia on the day after Thanksgiving. The term was meant to be a warning to the public about the potential dangers of the day’s shopping frenzy. However, over time, the negative connotations of the term were replaced by the positive aspects of the shopping event.
Black Friday became more popular in the 1980s and 1990s, as retailers began to promote massive sales and discounts to attract customers. The tradition of Black Friday shopping spread across the country, and today, it is one of the biggest shopping days of the year. In fact, according to the National Retail Federation, Black Friday sales in 2020 reached an estimated $7.4 billion, making it a critical day for retailers to boost their annual revenue.
Why has Black Friday become such a significant event? For many consumers, Black Friday represents an opportunity to save money on essential items, as well as to purchase gifts for friends and family. The anticipation of finding great deals and scoring big savings on high-demand products creates a sense of excitement and urgency. Additionally, the tradition of Black Friday has been embraced by retailers, who use the day to showcase their best promotions and entice shoppers to spend more.
While Black Friday has its origins in the United States, the shopping event has also gained popularity in other countries, such as Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia. As the world becomes more interconnected, the influence of Black Friday continues to grow, with more and more consumers around the globe participating in the annual shopping frenzy.
