The Myth of a War on Christmas: Debunking Misconceptions and Finding Common Ground

Is there really a 'war on Christmas'? The idea that people are fighting against the celebration of Christmas dates back to 17th century Puritans who, in a twist of irony, were themselves the ones who banned Christmas in England in the 1600s. This article aims to clarify the misconceptions surrounding this notion and to find a way forward where all can celebrate.

A Historical Perspective: The Puritans and Their Ban on Christmas

The last actual 'war on Christmas' can be traced back to 1647 in England, when Puritans in the English Parliament outlawed Christmas services and celebrations. This ban lasted for a staggering 13 years, primarily because Christmas celebrations were seen as too pagan and too Catholic, and not explicitly mentioned in the Bible. This ban was later repeated in Massachusets Bay in the early 1680s, but by then, the acceptance of Christmas had already begun to take root.

The Evolution of Christmas Celebrations

For centuries, early Christians did not celebrate birthdays, including that of Jesus, mainly because pagans also celebrated birthdays. Christmas itself originally celebrated the victory of light over darkness, not the birth of Christ, a concept that emerged much later. The idea that Christmas honors the birth of Jesus came to prominence only centuries later, with scholarly debates about the actual date of his birth ranging from late April to early May.

The Modern Misconception: The 'War on Christmas'

The modern term war on Christmas was coined by Bill O'Reilly, but it is a misnomer. A more accurate term would be war on anyone else's midwinter festival plus war on being fucking polite. This refers to the tension that arises when some people recognize the existence of other midwinter festivals and other religions, while others, particularly right-wing Christians, find it hard to accept this diversity.

The Reality: No Actual 'War on Christmas'

Despite popular belief and media portrayal, I have not witnessed any significant 'war on Christmas' in my heavily populated collar county to Chicago. The term 'war on Christmas' is often used by politicians, like former President Trump, as a way to gain support from his base.

Finding Common Ground: Celebrating Diversity and Inclusion

Our current society should aim to celebrate inclusivity, respect, and the recognition of various cultural and religious traditions. By acknowledging that there are more midwinter festivals and other religions, we can promote understanding and harmony. The key is to find common ground, celebrate diversity, and be respectful of all beliefs and practices.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the 'war on Christmas' is a misperception fueled by political rhetoric and misunderstanding. Instead of being focused on enforcing a single tradition, we should work towards celebrating the diverse cultural practices and beliefs that coexist around the midwinter season. By embracing inclusivity, we foster a more united and harmonious society.