Was Sarah Josepha buell hale the first person to request thanksgiving become a national holiday?

Yes, Sarah Josepha Hale was a key figure in advocating for Thanksgiving to become a national holiday. Throughout the 19th century, she wrote numerous letters to presidents and other influential leaders, urging them to establish a national day of Thanksgiving. Her persistent efforts culminated in President Abraham Lincoln proclaiming Thanksgiving a national holiday in 1863. While she wasn't the first to suggest it, her influence was instrumental in its official recognition.