San Antonio College Library

"In a fascinating, concise tour through history, the book tells the story of Christmas-from its pre-Christian roots, through the birth of Jesus, to the holiday's spread across Europe into the Americas and beyond, and to its mind-boggling transformation through modern consumer culture."--Page 2 of cover.

Chronicles the history of many traditions of the winter season and offers suggestions for celebrating the Winter solstice.

Christmas: The Sacred to Santa takes us on a journey from its historical origins to its modern incarnation as a global commercial event. Along the way we encounter a vast array of religious personages, fictional characters and mythic figures that have become associated with its celebration, from Saint Nicholas to the Magi, Scrooge and Krampus. Moore explores how the great traditions such as Christmas trees, feasting and gift-giving emerged, as well...

In this age of "political correctiness," Christmas has become our most controversial holiday. Each year brings new court battles over nativity scenes on public property and heated school-board meetings in the public schools.