The Battle for Christmas : A Cultural History of America's Most Cherished Holiday (Paperback)

from deanc

Nissenbaum has written a thoroughly researched history of Christmas in America. He argues that Christmas as it is observed today in millions of American homes is the result of deliberate efforts in the 19th century to domesticate an untamed, carnival holiday that was little more than an occasion ...

from 06nwingert

The Battle for Christmas is an interesting book that sheds some light on Christmas practices and traditions. The Puritans made Christmas illegal in New England becuase of its pagan roots. It's ironic that some will claim a 'war on Christmas,' which they believe is coming from the left, but in rea...

from etxgardener

I just re-read this book over the Christmas holiday after it sitting on my shelf for 14 years. This should be required reading for everyone who complains about either "the War on Christmas" or "what a shame it is that Christmas has become more commercial." Little do these people know that what Ch...

from Mitsou

very interesting book which shows that Christmas was indeed a secular holiday, started by American PR companies. The church was opposed to the holiday because from the start it was a pagan feast with drinking and the like and later on was mostly for material gifts. Very enlightening.

from Duane

I read this book a number of years ago. It is very detailed but not boring. I learned an incredible amount on the history of Christmas celebrations. A must if you are a fan of history and Christmas.