Christmas History The Evolution of a Holiday

Christmas: The World's Favorite Holiday

Christmas is a holiday full of tradition and wonder. More than a day of celebration that passes on the calendar, Christmas is a season of goodwill—a time when the goodness of the world is somehow more easily pronounced. The origin of Christmas, in its most basic form, is found in the story of Jesus Christ—a man whose exemplary character and ideals continue to be cherished to this day. Although there are those who rail against Christmas with the premise that it has become too religious, or too secular; there are many in America who embrace Christmas for the confluence of good qualities it has naturally inherited through history.


History and Tradition

What is known today as Christmas, is an accumulation of traditions that have evolved over a variety of cultures, and over many centuries. Major influences on the evolution of Christmas have come from Greek and Roman traditions, Pagan practices, the advent of Christianity, and American independence. Ideas and practices from many other countries have also influenced the traditions that define Christmas today.


Jesus Christ and Santa Claus

From carols and nativity scenes to stockings and reindeer, it is folly to suppose that Christmas can be characterized as either too religious or too secular. Christmas is certainly about Jesus, and certainly about Santa; but beyond that, it is about the ideals they stand for: peace, compassion, charity, joy, kindness, and love. One must only take a look at the history of Christmas to understand that the holiday has neither become too religious, nor too secular—it has only gotten better with time.


A Quality of Tolerance

The traditions of Christmas help us to remember the rich history that has made the holiday what it is today. As Christmas evolved through time, it assimilated the beliefs and customs of many cultures. A quality of tolerance has made Christmas unique from any other holiday. When the Romans accepted Christianity in the 4th century, they also incorporated many of the beliefs and practices of their people. In time, other good traditions were also integrated into Christmas tradition. In the 6th century, St. Nicholas was recognized as the saint of children and gift giving. German, Dutch, and English traditions joined the fray, as Christmas inherited the fine beliefs of other countries.


Pictures and Tales

In the 19th century, the evolution of Christmas continued, taking new shape in America through the use of stories and illustrations. Charles Dickens and Thomas Nast brought new life and imagery to legends and traditions that had been a part of Christmas for centuries. Santa Claus and his reindeer captured the hearts of children, while a new message of “Peace on Earth” resonated in the minds of adults.

In modern day, Christmas retains the wonderful qualities that have been imparted to it by the world. There is as much history and culture in Christmas as can be found in any other holiday. It began as a day to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, but it has evolved into a whole season of greater compassion and love of mankind. May this and every Christmas bring joy and peace to you and those you love.

Article By Wes Fessler