The True Story of the First Thanksgiving They Don’t Teach Anymore | David Barton, WallBuilders
In this special Thanksgiving episode, Jenny Beth Martin sits down with historian David Barton, President of WallBuilders, to uncover the true story of the Pilgrims, the real origins of Thanksgiving, and how their faith, courage, and biblical principles shaped the foundation of American liberty. Barton explains the Pilgrims’ extraordinary journey, their covenant community, the profound influence of the Geneva Bible, the development of private property and free-market economics in Plymouth, and the stark contrast between Plymouth and Jamestown. He also exposes common historical myths, including misinformation about slavery and the 1619 Project, and shows why Thanksgiving remains essential for understanding America’s blessings, freedoms, and constitutional heritage. This uplifting conversation reminds us why gratitude, faith, and truth still matter today.
The Jenny Beth Show · David Barton, Jenny Beth Martin
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Show Notes
In this special Thanksgiving episode, Jenny Beth Martin is joined by David Barton, President of WallBuilders, for an in-depth look at the true history behind the Pilgrims, the first Thanksgiving, and the biblical foundations that helped shape America. Barton walks through the Pilgrims’ escape from religious persecution, their dangerous voyage on the Mayflower, and the miracles that allowed them to survive their first brutal winters in the New World.
He explains how the Pilgrims established self-government through the Mayflower Compact, why the Geneva Bible transformed Western civilization, and how Plymouth’s respect for private property, free markets, education, and individual liberty set it apart from the Jamestown colony. Barton also addresses common historical myths, including misconceptions about Native relations, slavery, and the 1619 narrative, providing documented historical context often ignored in modern education.
Jenny Beth and David also discuss America’s long tradition of Thanksgiving proclamations, including those issued by George Washington, Samuel Adams, and Abraham Lincoln. They explore why gratitude, faith, and national remembrance remain vital today and why America’s blessings cannot be taken for granted.
Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the Pilgrims’ worldview, the biblical roots of American freedom, and the importance of teaching true history to future generations.
For more information on WallBuilders, visit wallbuilders.com.
Guest: David Barton, President, WallBuilders | X: @DavidBartonWB
Host: Jenny Beth Martin, Honorary Chairman, Tea Party Patriots Action | X: @jennybethm