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- Why Christmas wasn’t celebrated for two centuries
- Who brought Santa to the U.S.A.
- How the 25th of December became a family holiday
- What the first carols sounded like
Table of contents
first KEY POINT
Our decisions constitute the core of traditions
The 'things-have-always-been-this-way' approach is an integral attribute of traditions, yet most customs owe their popularity to certain people. For example, Americans generally believe that Dutch migrants brought Santa Claus to the United States. Although it's a creature of their folklore, it wasn't the Dutch who made Santa America's symbol for Christmas. Indeed, this celebration was typical for mid-17th-century Holland: Catholics closely associated Santa with St. Nicholas' Day. However, migrants to the New World were predominantly Protestants, who didn't approve of these customs.
A group of New Yorkers reinvented the Dutch tradition and made Santa a symbol of Christmas in the United States.
Therefore, people's decisions are the real driving force behind celebration rituals. For example, to publish a calendar marking the 25th of December as a holiday when no one else dared to; to return to nostalgic social harmony at Christmas, founding the New-York Historical Society. Or to popularize the unknown image of Santa by using its picture for advertisement in the press. In conducive circumstances, even the folklore base isn't essential: one family's habits can turn into a ritual beloved by the whole country.Economic factors also played a critical part: it took a lot of time for Christmas to become the holiday we know today. We will see how agrarian and industrial societies transformed the meaning of the customs and their evaluation at the scale “acceptable — awkward.”
Come along as we span an unbelievable transformation of the most anticipated time of year. Our journey begins at a time when Americans almost stopped celebrating Christmas.
second KEY POINT
Puritans banned the celebration of Christmas, but it was a different holiday then
In an agrarian society, life had a peculiar rhythm, full of arduous work in the field and at housekeeping. In December, when preparation for the winter was over, people could unwind and enjoy the outcomes of their efforts. Since wine or beer was already ready at that point, this month was well-known for its banquets.
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first KEY POINT
Christmas carols weren't limited to best wishes initially
second KEY POINT
Clement Clarke Moore transformed Santa and added seven reindeer
third KEY POINT
Merchants used 1000-pound cakes, among other techniques, to draw consumers’ attention
fourth KEY POINT
Literature significantly contributed to the popularity of the Christmas tree in the United States
fifth KEY POINT
Dickens's “A Christmas Carol” set an example for the rich
sixth KEY POINT
Conclusion
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Frequently asked questions
What is The Battle for Christmas: A Social and Cultural History of Our Most Cherished Holiday about?
The Battle for Christmas: A Social and Cultural History of Our Most Cherished Holiday, authored by Stephen Nissenbaum, explores the evolution of Christmas traditions and their socio-cultural implications. The book delves into how commercialism, politics, and cultural attitudes have shaped the way we celebrate this beloved holiday over time.
Who is the author of The Battle for Christmas: A Social and Cultural History of Our Most Cherished Holiday?
The author of The Battle for Christmas: A Social and Cultural History of Our Most Cherished Holiday is Stephen Nissenbaum, a historian renowned for his insights into American culture and festive traditions.
Is The Battle for Christmas: A Social and Cultural History of Our Most Cherished Holiday worth reading?
Yes, The Battle for Christmas is not only informative but also engaging, offering a critical examination of how societal changes impact our most cherished holiday. Readers interested in cultural history and holiday traditions will find its perspectives particularly enriching.
How many pages is The Battle for Christmas: A Social and Cultural History of Our Most Cherished Holiday and when was it published?
The Battle for Christmas by Stephen Nissenbaum is approximately 400 pages long and was published in 1997. This comprehensive read provides an in-depth exploration of the historical context of Christmas celebrations.
What are the key takeaways from The Battle for Christmas: A Social and Cultural History of Our Most Cherished Holiday?
Key takeaways from The Battle for Christmas include insights into the commercialization of the holiday, the influence of different cultural practices on modern celebrations, and the ongoing 'battle' between traditionalist and contemporary values surrounding Christmas. Nissenbaum's analysis encourages readers to reflect on the complexities of this festive season.