Easter, American Style: The History & More
Many people today believe that Easter
has always been a time-honored tradition
in the United States that dates back as
far as the establishments of the early settlers...not
true! In fact Easter wasn’t that big of
a deal in America until after the blood
shed of the Civil War because a majority
of the early settlers were Puritans or members
of a Protestant church.
After the Civil War Presbyterians devastated
by the havoc of war found comfort in the
story of the resurrection of Jesus Christ,
thus giving birth to a tradition that is
now celebrated in nearly every home in America.
Even though the American Easter tradition
originally was based on the religious beliefs
of Christians, today many Americans celebrate
Easter for many different reasons.
The Christian Celebration
Jewish High Priests accused Jesus Christ
of blasphemy and under the order of the
Roman governor Pontius Pilate, Jesus was
crucified by the Romans. Three days later
it was said that Jesus was resurrected from
the dead on what Christians refer to as
Easter Sunday.
Traditionally in Christian churches Easter
is celebrated beginning with a special service,
followed by a dinner featuring lots of games
for children. Adults hide Easter eggs, children
dressed in only their best with a basket
in tow search for eggs and usually there’s
a prize waiting for the best egg hunter.
The story of the resurrection of Jesus Christ
is highlighted on this special day and Christians
of all ages participate in the festivities.
Non-Religious Celebration
Not all Americans are Christians, yet they
do recognize the Easter holiday placing
a special emphasis on the Easter Bunny.
Children are told the tales of how an aged
rabbit hops around spreading the joy of
Easter leaving a trail of colored eggs,
candy and gifts for children all around
the world.
Surprisingly the Easter Bunny is just as
famous as
Santa Claus!
Children go to bed anxiously waiting to
rise the next morning to see just what the
Easter Bunny has in store for them. Adults
have small gatherings inviting family and
friends for a cook out, an Easter egg hunt
or simply to spend time together.
No matter what the reasoning, businesses
love to see the holidays roll around and
Easter is one that is looked forward in
the retail industry! It’s estimated that
American consumers spend over 1 million
dollars on Easter candy every year and that
nearly 20 billion jellybeans are produced
just for Easter.
Source: Johann Erickson, OnlineDiscountMart.com
Learn about the History of Easter and
Traditions in: