Traditions of Christmas: Gifts

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Gifts were originally given to Christ by the wise men. Frankincense is the symbol of worship, Myrrh, was used for burial ceremonies, but was very rare and costly.  The gift of Gold meant the gift was very important and the person who received the gift was a loved one or individual of high standing.

The art of gift giving has evolved since the Wise Men brought the Christ Child their gifts
The art of gift giving has evolved since the Wise Men brought the Christ Child their gifts

Gifts were exchanged during the Roman celebration of the Saturnalia, a feast to the god Saturn. Gift-giving came to symbolize the gifts brought to the Christ Child by the Three Wise Men or Magi.

Ancient British law decreed that gifts should only be given to royalty and no one else.  The Danes initiated wrapping gifts.  The gift was passed along and everyone wrapped and unwrapped it adding their presents for the intended recipient.

The Dutch hid notes as to where the gifts may be found.

Santa began appearing in stores after the American Civil War.

Presents finally caught on in England and the US during the 1880’s.

With catalogs and large stores the season of giving started to appear, as we know it today by the early 1900’s.

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