The Evolution of Christmas in America

Which of the following is a popular secular symbol of Christmas in America?

• The Halloween Pumpkin

• The Thanksgiving Turkey

• Santa Claus

• The Easter Bunny

What was the nature of Christmas celebrations during the colonial era?

• A quiet family gathering

• A day of fasting and prayer

• A solemn religious ceremony

• A rowdy party with drinking and gambling

What was the original purpose of declaring December 25th as the date of Jesus's birth?

• To coincide with the winter solstice

• To mark the start of the new year

• To align with a pagan holiday

• To honor a Roman emperor

Why did the Puritans in Massachusetts ban Christmas celebrations?

• They believed it was too expensive

• They wanted to promote another holiday

• They were opposed to all forms of celebration

• They thought it was non-scriptural and illegitimate

When did Americans begin to widely embrace Christmas as a holiday?

• In the late 18th century

• In the mid-19th century

• In the early 20th century

• In the early 17th century