Figure 1.-- Photographic Christmas cards first appeared we think in the 1930s, but became a common tradition after World War II in the 1940s. This one from the Keefer family looks like it was taken in the 1940s. |
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Christmas celebrations in America have varied over time. There were at substantial regional differences in colonial America. The northern colonies were influenced by the Puritans who actually discouraged Cghristmas celebrations and other non-conforming Protestant sects. The southern colonies were more staunchly Anglican. The back country was less orgaized, but the Scotts-Irish were a major influence. Christmas celebrations were significantly affected in Britain by Queen Victoria's family, especially Prince Albert. There were several Victorian Christmas traditions, but the central element was Christmas a a family event centered on the children. Many American Christmast traditions were acquired from Britain at this time. Increased immigration during the nid- and late-19th century from Catholic countries was also a factor, but they seemed to have adopted American-style Christmas rather than significantly changeing it. Of course there have been many American refinments added over time. Santa's image is a little different and the reindeer, especially the more recent addition of Rudolf, are an American innovation. And it is in America during the 20th century that Christmas became such a commercial event. One impact here was secular Christmas icons, bot only Rudolf, but Frosty, and eventually the Grinch. It was in America that the "Nutcracker" emerged as an important Christmas tradition. And economic prosperity over time transformed how Christmas was celebrated. While Christmas in the 20th century became more commercial and secular, the heart of the Victorian tradotion remained--Christmas as a central family-oriented event.
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