Christmas History

Categories: Social Science | Christmas | Holidays

  • The historical origin of Christmas has roots in Celtic, Norse and Roman paganism. Early European festivities revolved around the Winter Solstice. In the fourth century, Christian Church officials decided to designate Jesus' birthday as a holiday. The date of Jesus' birth is not mentioned in the Bible, so Pope Julius I chose December 25 as the designated day of celebration.Catholic Encyclopedia: Christmas

  • Before it Was Christmas

    Long before the holiday we know today as Christmas came into being, ancient civilizations celebrated the winter solstice. In ancient Rome, Saturnalia saw households feasting and decorating with laurel garlands and candles, and even exchanging gifts. Ancient Druids harvested mistletoe during the winter solstice and gave pieces to all of the households in the village to ward off evil. In Scandinavia ornaments decorated evergreen trees during Yule, and the men of the household set out to find the biggest yule log they could find.Zenzibar: The Pagan Origins of Christmas

  • Gift Giving

    Many modern Christmas celebrations revolve around gift-giving and the Christmas tree. These customs were popularized by the Western reinvention of Christmas during the 18th century.How Stuff Works: Christmas Santa Claus, a fictional character who flies in a magic sleigh pulled by reindeer to deliver gifts to children around the world, also became an important feature in Christmas legend and festivities during the 19th century.

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