UPDATE: As the countdown to Black Friday begins, new insights are emerging about the origins of this retail phenomenon. What started as a chaotic event in Philadelphia has transformed into the biggest shopping day of the year.
Originally coined in the 1950s, the term “Black Friday” was used by police to describe the mayhem that ensued following Thanksgiving as crowds flocked to the city for the annual Army-Navy football game. This chaotic scene required police to work extended shifts, giving rise to a new shopping tradition that has evolved dramatically over the decades.
Contrary to popular belief, the term did not stem from the idea of retailers moving from “in the red” to “in the black.” Earlier narratives incorrectly linked the term to a disastrous financial event involving financiers Jay Gould and Jim Fisk in 1869. Their gold market scheme collapsed, causing widespread financial ruin.
As Black Friday gained traction, retailers in the 1980s successfully rebranded it from a negative connotation to a celebration of consumerism, marking the day when stores became profitable. This shift led to the widespread adoption of sales stretching across the weekend, introducing new events like Small Business Saturday and Cyber Monday.
However, recent discussions have reignited debates over the dark history associated with Black Friday. An unfounded myth claiming it originated from discounted slave purchases has sparked calls for boycotts. Nonetheless, historians have refuted this narrative, reaffirming the chaotic Philadelphia origins.
As Black Friday approaches this year, shoppers are preparing for a retail experience that has been reshaped by a surge in online shopping. Many stores are now opening as early as Thanksgiving Day, allowing consumers to dive into the holiday shopping frenzy sooner than ever.
Despite its evolution, Black Friday remains a topic of contention, with critics arguing that it promotes rampant consumerism and chaos. The dramatic shift from in-person shopping to online platforms has redefined how millions engage with this retail event.
As we brace for the onslaught of deals, remember the complex history behind the day and the various narratives that shape our understanding of this annual shopping extravaganza. Stay tuned for the latest updates as Black Friday approaches, and prepare for an intense shopping experience that promises both deals and drama.
