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Christmas a symbol of American culture and old world roots
The essay traces Christmas as a blend of Old World origins and American adaptation. It notes Santa Claus, St Nicholas legends, and contributions from Francis, the English, Irish, and German traditions, plus the post Civil War rise of prominence driven by Irving Moore Dickens and White House celebrations. It ends with the enduring commercial and festive spirit despite Enlightenment critiques.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Middlebury
Middlebury, Vt
Pagan
Santa Claus
St. Nicholas
Patura
St. Francis
Germany
Wodin
America
Rudolph
Stephens
Victoria
Albert
England
Washington Irving
New
York
Clement Moore
New York
Charles Dickens
Grover Cleveland
White House