Black Friday is a shopping phenomenon that originated in the United States and has become one of the busiest shopping days of the year. The history of Black Friday is complex, with multiple factors contributing to its development. While it is a day of great deals, it is also a day of chaos and unrest for many. 

The term “Black Friday” has multiple origins and multiple theories to support it. One popular belief is that it originated in the 1960s in Philadelphia when police officers used the term to describe the chaotic, heavy pedestrian and vehicle traffic that occurred on the day after Thanksgiving. Another theory is related to the accounting practices of retailers. In accounting, red ink is often used to signify losses while black ink signifies profits. It is believed that retailers started using the term “Black Friday” because historically, this day marked the point in the year when retailers would begin to turn a profit, moving from being “in the red” to being “in the black.”

Over time, Black Friday evolved into a day of deep discounts and special promotions. Retailers began opening their doors early, some even at midnight, to attract customers with limited-time deals. The competition among retailers led to a significant growth in the best deals and discounts on this day. But, Black Friday has gained notoriety for chaotic and extreme incidents over the years, as shoppers eagerly pursue the best deals. 

Reports of violence, fights, and stampedes are not uncommon on Black Friday. Shoppers have been known to get into physical altercations over limited-quantity items. Instances of people being trampled or injured in the chaos have been reported. To ensure they are first in line for the heaviest discounts and deals, some dedicated shoppers camp out in front of stores for days leading up to Black Friday. This has led to the creation of temporary “tent cities” outside of malls and major retailers. In some instances, thieves have taken advantage of the crowded and hectic environment on Black Friday to commit crimes. There have been reports of shoplifters and even armed robberies occurring amid the shopping frenzy.

Today, Black Friday is not just confined to the United States; it has spread to many other countries around the world, with retailers offering significant discounts, both in-store and online. While the pursuit of deals and the excitement of Black Friday can sometimes lead to unexpected and extreme situations, retailers and law enforcement have taken steps over the years to improve safety and security during this busy shopping day.