Why is It Called Black Friday in the USA- Unveiling the History and Mystery Behind the Name
Why Do They Call It Black Friday in USA?
Black Friday, the day after Thanksgiving, is one of the most anticipated shopping days of the year in the United States. However, the name “Black Friday” might raise some questions among those unfamiliar with the tradition. So, why do they call it Black Friday in the USA?
The origin of the term “Black Friday” dates back to the 1960s in Philadelphia. Initially, the term was used to describe the heavy traffic and chaos that occurred on the day after Thanksgiving, as shoppers flooded the city’s streets. The name was not meant to be a positive one; rather, it was a way to describe the overwhelming crowds and chaos that ensued.
The term gained national attention in the 1980s when retailers began to use it as a marketing tool. They started to promote Black Friday as the day when stores would “turn to black” in their accounting books, signifying the beginning of the profitable holiday shopping season. This was a significant shift in the perception of Black Friday, as it went from a day of chaos to a day of opportunity for retailers.
The idea behind the “turning to black” concept is that retailers typically operate at a loss throughout the year, and Black Friday marks the point at which they begin to turn a profit. This is due to the massive sales and discounts offered on this day, which attract millions of shoppers to stores across the country.
In recent years, the Black Friday shopping tradition has expanded beyond the United States, with many countries adopting the concept. However, the name “Black Friday” remains unique to the U.S., reflecting its origins and the cultural significance it holds.
While the term “Black Friday” has its roots in chaos and traffic, it has evolved to represent the beginning of the holiday shopping season and the opportunity for retailers to boost their profits. So, the next time you hear someone ask, “Why do they call it Black Friday in the USA?” you can confidently explain the history and significance behind this iconic shopping day.
