What year did Black Friday shopping start? This question often comes up during the highly anticipated shopping event that takes place on the day after Thanksgiving in the United States. The origins of Black Friday shopping can be traced back to the late 19th century, but it wasn’t until the 1960s that the term became widely recognized and associated with the post-Thanksgiving shopping spree. Let’s delve into the history and evolution of this shopping phenomenon.
Black Friday shopping started gaining traction in the early 20th century when retailers began to offer special deals and discounts to attract customers. One of the earliest mentions of Black Friday dates back to 1870 when the Philadelphia Police Department referred to the day as “Black Friday” due to the heavy traffic and general chaos caused by the influx of shoppers. However, this was not directly related to the shopping event we know today.
The term “Black Friday” gained more popularity in the 1960s when retailers began to use it as a way to promote their post-Thanksgiving sales. It was believed that the day marked the point in the year when retailers turned from a “red” to a “black” financial status, meaning they moved from operating at a loss to making a profit. This was due to the increased sales during the holiday shopping season.
One of the key factors that contributed to the rise of Black Friday shopping was the introduction of the Thanksgiving holiday in 1941. By extending the holiday to four days, retailers had more time to promote their sales and attract customers. This extended holiday period, combined with the growing consumer culture in the United States, created the perfect environment for Black Friday to flourish.
Over the years, Black Friday has evolved into a massive shopping event that spans multiple days and even weeks. While the original focus was on in-store shopping, the rise of online shopping has expanded the event’s reach and duration. Today, Black Friday deals can be found well before the actual day, with many retailers offering early bird specials and extended promotions.
In conclusion, Black Friday shopping started gaining prominence in the 1960s as a way for retailers to boost sales after Thanksgiving. The term “Black Friday” was initially used to describe the chaos caused by shoppers, but it later became associated with the shopping event itself. Today, Black Friday has become a significant part of the holiday shopping season, with retailers and consumers alike eagerly anticipating the deals and discounts.
