Teaching Students About Why We Call It Black Friday
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Black Friday is a term that is synonymous with the beginning of the Christmas shopping season. It is the day after Thanksgiving, and it is one of the biggest shopping days of the year. Many retailers offer huge discounts and promotions to attract shoppers to their stores.
Teaching students about why we call it Black Friday is an excellent opportunity to educate them about history, economics, and marketing. By learning about the origins of the term, students can gain a more comprehensive understanding of the holiday season, including its cultural and commercial aspects.
One popular theory about why we call it Black Friday is that it came from the practice of writing losses in red ink and profits in black ink in the ledger books of accounting. The day after Thanksgiving was the day that retailers began to make a profit, going from red to black, hence the name Black Friday.
Another theory traces the term back to the 1960s when Philadelphia police used it to describe the chaos and congestion they encountered on the streets during the holiday shopping season. The police likened the crowds and traffic to the worst nightmare of retailers and shoppers, and hence the term Black Friday was born.
Teaching students about the historical and economic origins of Black Friday can be an enriching experience. They can learn about the evolution of consumerism and the role of marketing in shaping our culture and economy. Students can also learn about the impact of Black Friday on the retail industry, including the risks and rewards of participating in this tradition.
In conclusion, teaching students about why we call it Black Friday is an opportunity to provide a deeper understanding of our society and its values. Students can learn about the history and economics of a holiday whose impact is felt throughout the year. With this knowledge, they can make informed decisions as consumers and members of our global community.