A History of Christmas Trees

What are the two main categories of trees discussed in relation to their leaf retention?

• Deciduous and Coniferous

• Deciduous and Evergreen

• Deciduous and Evergreen

• Tropical and Temperate

What is a defining characteristic of evergreen trees?

• They lose their leaves in the fall.

• They are typically found in tropical climates.

• They retain their leaves throughout the year.

• They produce fruit year-round.

In the Northern Hemisphere, what event marks the Winter Solstice?

• The longest day and shortest night of the year.

• The shortest day and longest night of the year.

• Equal hours of daylight and darkness.

• The beginning of the spring season.

Which ancient civilization honored their sun god, Ra, and filled their homes with palm rushes during the Winter Solstice?

• The Romans

• The Vikings

• The Ancient Egyptians

• The Celts

What did the ancient Egyptians use to symbolize the triumph of life over death during the Winter Solstice?

• Decorated fir trees

• Green palm rushes

• Golden statues of Ra

• Feasts and celebrations

In which century and country is the creation of the first real Christmas tree believed to have originated?

• 15th century, France

• 17th century, England

• 18th century, United States

• 16th century, Germany

Who is widely credited with starting the tradition of bringing a Christmas tree indoors and decorating it with candles?

• The ancient Romans

• The Vikings of Scandinavia

• Martin Luther

• Adam and Eve

What inspired Martin Luther to decorate an evergreen tree with candles and bring it into his home?

• A desire to mimic the beauty of a starlit winter forest.

• An ancient ritual he wished to adopt.

• A suggestion from his family to brighten their home.

• A dream he had about a glowing tree.

Approximately how many Christmas trees are sold in the United States each year?

• More than 10 million

• More than 30 million

• More than 20 million

• More than 40 million