What is Black Friday and its origin?

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Black Friday has become a phenomenon, famous for pulling crowds into stores, sparking online shopping sprees, and filling social media feeds with flashy deals. But how did this seemingly ordinary Friday after the US Thanksgiving become a shopping legend? Surprisingly, Black Friday didn’t start out as a holiday shopping event at all. Over the years, it’s evolved through some interesting twists and turns. Let’s dive into the backstory that made Black Friday what it is today – and discover how the crypto world has joined in on the excitement.

Be sure to check out our exclusive Black Friday crypto deal at the end of this article, too!

What Even is Black Friday?

Though Black Friday is now the ultimate shopping day, its history is a mixed bag of events, each adding its own flavor to this global day of sales. Here’s a peek at the most fascinating stories behind the name.

The 1869 Gold Market Crash

The earliest mention of “Black Friday” dates back to a day of financial chaos rather than holiday cheer. In 1869, two bold Wall Street speculators, Jay Gould and James Fisk, made a dramatic attempt to control the U.S. gold market. Their risky moves led to soaring gold prices, but the plan eventually collapsed, throwing the economy into turmoil. This financial disaster, which struck on September 24, went down in history as “Black Friday.”

Philadelphia’s Traffic Nightmare

Fast forward to the 1950s and 60s, and “Black Friday” picked up a different meaning in Philadelphia. Each year, the day after Thanksgiving saw huge crowds flocking to the city for holiday shopping and the much-anticipated Army-Navy football game. The streets filled with cars, sidewalks jammed with shoppers, and exhausted police officers dealing with the mayhem began calling it “Black Friday.” While retailers tried rebranding it as “Big Friday,” the term “Black Friday” had already gained a life of its own.

The Retailers’ Spin: From Red to Black

By the 1980s, Black Friday had yet another makeover – this time, from retailers looking to add a positive spin. They popularized the story that Black Friday marked the start of their profits going “into the black” (moving from loss to gain) thanks to eager holiday shoppers. This clever marketing twist helped reshape Black Friday as a day of celebration and sales, turning it into the shopping festival we know today. Now, instead of chaos, it brought crowds with one mission: scoring deals.

Together, these stories formed the legendary shopping day that Black Friday is today. While the name might sound ominous, for most of us, it means snagging great deals and jumping into the holiday shopping spirit – a tradition that started in the U.S. but has now spread around the world.

Black Friday & Crypto

With Black Friday’s massive online presence, the crypto world has begun joining in on the action in recent years. This day now brings unique opportunities for crypto enthusiasts and shoppers alike, changing how we think about holiday deals in the digital age. The first “crypto Black Friday” was recorded when some crypto enthusiast organized the first Bitcoin Black Friday in 2012, with the aim of promoting cryptocurrency within his community.

Crypto Deals and Discounts 

Black Friday isn’t just about electronics or clothing anymore; crypto platforms are adding exciting offers to the mix. From discounts on secure storage tools to trading bonuses and reduced fees, Black Friday deals make it easier than ever to explore or expand your crypto experience. 

Market Activity 

The buzz of Black Friday can spark increased activity in the crypto market, as new and experienced investors jump on the day’s momentum. This excitement often leads to short-term volatility, with traders watching market movements to seize quick opportunities.

Adoption of Crypto Payments 

As more retailers start accepting crypto payments, Black Friday has become a time when shoppers can experiment with digital assets as a payment option. Some platforms even let crypto holders buy gift cards for popular stores, making crypto a practical part of the holiday shopping season. It’s a clear sign that crypto is becoming more integrated into everyday life, one holiday at a time.

CryptoUnity Holiday Deal: Cashback on $CUT Purchases

To celebrate Black Friday, CryptoUnity is offering an exclusive opportunity to grow your crypto portfolio with a cashback bonus on $CUT purchases! Whether you’re just starting or looking to expand your investment, this deal makes it easier than ever to get more out of your purchases during the holiday season.

The more you buy, the bigger the cashback:

  • €50 – €100: 2% cashback
  • €100 – €250: 5% cashback
  • €250 – €500: 10% cashback
  • €500 – €1000: 20% cashback
  • €1000+: 30% cashback

Maximize your Black Friday with up to 30% cashback, exclusively with CryptoUnity. It’s the perfect chance to get more out of your investment and step into the crypto world with some extra assets in your pocket.

Please note, that terms and conditions apply.

Black Friday has come a long way, from its surprising origins to a global shopping tradition. Now, with the rise of crypto, it’s also transforming into a digital celebration filled with unique opportunities for investors and enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re looking for a great deal on holiday gifts or exploring new ways to grow your investments, the day opens up exciting doors in both the traditional and digital worlds.

CryptoUnity is here to make your shopping spree even better. Take advantage of our exclusive cashback offer and see how easy it can be to start your journey in crypto. Which Black Friday deal will you make the most of this year?