What was the original meaning behind the term 'Black Friday' before it became associated with post-Thanksgiving shopping?

Black Friday has become a global shopping phenomenon and cultural tradition that marks the beginning of the holiday shopping season in many countries. But how much do you know about its origins? This trivia question explores the fascinating history behind one of retail's biggest events that has transformed from a local American tradition into a worldwide cultural shopping experience.

This is a live public trivia poll on AIPolls.Net. Vote and see real-time results.

It referred to the practice of retailers finally going from financial loss ('in the red') to profit ('in the black') for the year
It described the chaotic crowds and traffic congestion in Philadelphia in the 1950s when shoppers and tourists flooded the city after Thanksgiving
It originated from factory workers calling in sick the day after Thanksgiving to create a four-day weekend
It was named after the 1869 financial crisis when gold prices plummeted, which happened to fall on a Friday after Thanksgiving