Black Friday is the day after Thanksgiving when retailers offer massive discounts and sales, kicking off the holiday shopping season. It’s a term that has become synonymous with incredible deals and chaotic shopping sprees.
But have you ever wondered?
- Why is it called Black Friday?
- Where did this name originate?
- What are the myths surrounding it?
In this article, let’s unravel the history and uncover the truth behind this iconic shopping day.
Table Of Contents:
- Origins of the Name.
- Myths and Misconceptions.
- Evolution and Commercialisation.
- Conclusion.
- Frequently Asked Questions.
Origins of the Name
The most commonly accepted theory explaining the name “Black Friday” dates back to the 1960s in Philadelphia.
As the story goes, the term “Black Friday” was coined by the Philadelphia Police Department to describe the heavy and disruptive pedestrian and vehicular traffic that occurred on the day after Thanksgiving. The influx of shoppers and tourists caused chaos in the city, leading to long working hours and overworked police officers. This, in turn, led to a negative connotation with the name “Black Friday.”
Another theory suggests that the name originated from recording losses in red ink and profits in black. In the past, accountants used black ink to denote profits and red ink to indicate losses.
Black Friday marked the unofficial beginning of the holiday shopping season, during which retailers hoped to profit, hence the association with the colour black.
Myths and Misconceptions
Over the years, several myths and misconceptions surrounding Black Friday’s origins have emerged.
One popular myth suggests that the name refers to the day retailers finally turn a profit for the year, moving from being “in the red” to “in the black.” However, this theory is not accurate, as most retailers typically turn a profit long before Black Friday.
Another myth claims that Black Friday was a term used by slave traders to describe the day after Thanksgiving when they would sell slaves at discounted prices. However, no historical evidence supports this claim and it is widely regarded as a fabrication.
Evolution and Commercialisation
While the name’s origins may have negative connotations, Black Friday has become a highly anticipated and celebrated shopping event.
The term gained nationwide recognition in the 1980s and 1990s, as retailers began offering significant discounts and promotions to attract customers. It soon became synonymous with deep discounts, early store openings, and long lines outside stores.
With the rise of e-commerce, Black Friday has expanded beyond brick-and-mortar stores. Online retailers now offer their versions of Black Friday deals, enticing shoppers with the convenience of shopping from home. In recent years, Cyber Monday has emerged as a companion to Black Friday, focusing on online deals and promotions.
Conclusion
Black Friday has become a cultural phenomenon, marking the official start of the holiday shopping season. Even though the name’s origins may still be disputed, the term has come to mean massive discounts and incredible bargains.
Whether you brave the crowded stores or shop from the comfort of your home, Black Friday offers an opportunity to snag bargains and kickstart your holiday shopping. Just remember to plan, stay safe, and enjoy the thrill of the hunt for the best deals.
Stay tuned with Regenesys to explore myths, facts, origins, and the best Black Friday offers – 2023.
FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions: Why Is It Called Black Friday? Unravelling the Origins and Myths.
What is Black Friday?
Answer:
Black Friday is a term that has become synonymous with massive shopping deals, long queues, and incredible discounts. It marks the starting point of the holiday shopping season and is observed the day after Thanksgiving.
When is Black Friday 2023?
Answer:
Black Friday 2023 will officially take place between 24 and 27 November.
Black Friday, the day after Thanksgiving, has become synonymous with incredible deals and frenzied shopping. It marks the unofficial start of the holiday shopping season, with retailers offering massive discounts and sales to attract eager shoppers.
What is the origins of Black Friday?
Answer: The origins of Black Friday are multifaceted, with various stories and myths contributing to its history.
What are the Myths of Black Friday?
Answer: There are many myths behind Black Friday.
- Slave Sales Myth:
There is a myth that Black Friday originated from the sale of enslaved people on the day after Thanksgiving. There is no historical evidence to support this claim. Thus, it is widely regarded as false.
- Bookkeeping Myth:
Black Friday is related to bookkeeping practices, with black ink indicating profits and red ink indicating losses. This is a popular myth. While it is a compelling story, little evidence supports this as the primary origin.
What are Thanksgiving Parades?
Answer: Some sources also link the term “Black Friday” to the Thanksgiving Day parades in the early 20th century.
When did Black Friday become a national phenomenon?
Answer: In the latter half of the 20th century, Black Friday became a national phenomenon as retailers across the United States began offering significant discounts and promotions to kick off the holiday shopping season.
What is the Black Friday Offer at Regenesys?
Answer: Regenesys is thrilled to announce an exclusive Black Friday offer.
Regenesys offers a Flat 30% discount on all our programmes. This limited-time offer allows you to invest in your education at a reduced cost, making it even more affordable and inspiring.
Prepare to explore a bright future with Regenesys this Black Friday – 2023!
Click here to explore the best Black Friday offers at Regenesys.
Content Writer | Regenesys Business School
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