What does this tree mean? There are many different interpretations of folklore. Some people believe that inspiration comes from the Paradise Tree: as the symbol of the Garden of Eden, the Paradise Tree appeared in the medieval drama about Adam and Eve. Others believe that the Christmas tree originated from the Christmas Pyramid: it is a wooden structure decorated with evergreen tree branches and religious figures. Cusack thinks these statements are nonsense. She said: “In the Christian context, the Christmas tree is intended to be neutral in religion.”
1. It is generally believed that Martin Luther, a Protestant reformer, was the first person to light the Christmas tree – using candles instead of today’s electric light (electric light was invented in 1882). He walked through the woods at night, the stars twinkling overhead, and then thought of this. In the process of settling down in other countries, German immigrants also brought these traditions to the past. Cusack said that by the 18th century, Christmas trees had spread all over Europe.
2. It is generally believed that Queen Charlotte was the first to introduce the Christmas tree into the royal family: in the mid-18th century, the daughter of the German Duke married King George III. However, the reason why the Christmas tree has become a symbol of the festival today is due to another British Queen.
3. At the end of the 18th century, the tradition of the German Christmas tree was introduced to the United States. At that time, Hesse mercenaries helped Britain to join the American War of Independence. In the following years, German immigrants brought this tradition to the United States. Over time, “other Americans were also deeply attracted”, wrote the historian Penne Restad.
