How Christmas transformed from a religious observance to a consumer-driven holiday
- The anonymous poem ‘A Visit From St. Nicholas’ transformed Christmas into a modern holiday centered around gift-giving
- Christmas shopping became a major industry in the late 19th century
- The holiday season now accounts for nearly a fifth of U.S. annual retail sales
- The tradition of sending Christmas cards and the rise of holiday advertising
- Black Friday emerged as a major shopping event in the 1980s
- Holiday sales have consistently increased in recent years
On Dec. 23, 1823, the publication of the poem ‘A Visit From St. Nicholas’ marked a turning point in the history of Christmas. This anonymous poem, later attributed to Clement Clarke Moore, introduced the figure of Santa Claus and shifted the focus of the holiday towards gift-giving. As a result, Christmas shopping became a booming industry in the late 19th century, with department stores and mail-order businesses reporting record sales. The holiday season now accounts for a significant portion of U.S. retail sales, and holiday advertising starts earlier each year. The rise of Black Friday as a major shopping event in the 1980s further solidified Christmas as a consumer-driven holiday. Despite criticism of commercialization, holiday sales continue to increase year after year, with Americans spending an average of $875 during the holiday season. The tradition of sending Christmas cards and the influence of holiday advertising also play a significant role in shaping the modern Christmas experience. In conclusion, Christmas has evolved from a religious observance to a shopping extravaganza, with Santa Claus and consumerism at the forefront.
Public Companies: R.H. Macy & Co. (N/A), Marshall Field (N/A), Sears, Roebuck (N/A), Mattel (N/A)
Private Companies: undefined
Key People: Clement Clarke Moore (Author of "A Visit From St. Nicholas"), Cotton Mather (Puritan minister), Walt Disney (Founder of Walt Disney), Franklin D. Roosevelt (Former President of the United States)
Factuality Level: 7
Justification: The article provides historical information about the evolution of Christmas and its commercialization. While some statements are based on historical facts, others are subjective opinions or generalizations. The article does not contain misleading information or fallacies, but it includes some tangential details and repetitive information.
Noise Level: 3
Justification: The article provides a historical overview of the commercialization of Christmas and its impact on the U.S. economy. However, it lacks depth and analysis, and mostly consists of anecdotal information and general statements. It does not provide evidence or data to support its claims, and does not offer any actionable insights or solutions. Overall, the article contains a lot of filler content and does not provide a thoughtful analysis of long-term trends or antifragility.
Financial Relevance: Yes
Financial Markets Impacted: The holiday season accounts for nearly a fifth of U.S. annual retail sales, and more for sellers of clothes, toys, and other prime gift items. The end-of-year trade is crucial to industries like airlines, hotels, manufacturing, and shipping, as well as to thousands of seasonal workers.
Presence of Extreme Event: No
Nature of Extreme Event: No
Impact Rating of the Extreme Event: No
Justification: The article discusses the significant impact of the holiday season on the U.S. economy, particularly in the retail industry. However, there is no mention of any extreme events or disruptions.
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