In Germany, people honored the pagan god Odin during the mid-winter holiday.In addition, most wine and beer made during the year was finally fermented and ready for drinking. For many, it was the only time of year when they had a supply of fresh meat. At that time of year, most cattle were slaughtered so they would not have to be fed during the winter.The Norse believed that each spark from the fire represented a new pig or calf that would be born during the coming year. The people would feast until the log burned out, which could take as many as 12 days. It celebrated the return of the sun, fathers and sons would bring home large logs, which they would set on fire. In Scandinavia, the Norse celebrated Yule (from December 21, the winter solstice, through January).The word Christmas comes from Cristes maesse, an early English phrase that means Mass of Christ. During the Christmas season, they also exchange gifts and decorate their homes with holly, mistletoe, and Christmas trees. No one knows the exact date of Christ's birth, but most Christians observe Christmas on December 25. Christmas is a Christian holiday that celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ.Many peoples rejoiced during the winter solstice, when the worst of the winter was behind them and they could look forward to longer days and extended hours of sunlight. Centuries before the arrival of the man called Jesus, early Europeans celebrated light and birth in the darkest days of winter.

The middle of winter has long been a time of celebration around the world.This will be counted as an extra-credit homework assignment! Be sure to explain specific examples in your essay. The Assignment: Be sure to read the notes section of each slide to learn more! Write a five-paragraph essay which explains how the modern celebration of the Christmas Holiday reflects the notion of the American Melting Pot. History of Christmas Everything you wanted to know about Christmas but were afraid to ask!

Christmas ppt