The Tradition of Christmas Cards

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The tradition of exchanging Christmas greetings has deep historical roots, dating back to a time when "Merry Christmas" first appeared in a letter from 1534. The evolution of this practice saw a remarkable milestone when, in 1611, an elaborate gift resembling the modern Christmas card was presented to King James I of England and VI of Scotland. This gift, unlike the compact cards we're accustomed to, was a grand manuscript adorned with a rose and festive messages, alongside poems and a song, designed for royal appreciation.

 

The transformation into the Christmas cards we recognize today began in 1843, thanks to Sir Henry Cole's innovative spirit in the UK. As a prominent civil servant involved with the early workings of what would become the Post Office, Cole sought to make the postal service more accessible. Together with artist John Horsley, they crafted the first commercial Christmas card, selling each for a shilling. Despite controversy over its depiction of a child drinking wine, it marked the beginning of a widespread tradition, fueled further by the introduction of affordable postal rates through the Penny Post.

 

Christmas cards gained immense popularity with advancements in printing technology and the reduction of postage costs, making them a staple of the season. Early designs often featured nativity scenes, but Victorian preferences shifted towards robins and snowy landscapes, inspired by the harsh winter of 1836. The trend crossed into America in the late 1840s, though high costs initially hindered widespread adoption until Louis Prang began mass production in 1875, democratizing the Christmas card.

 

The tradition of sending personalized cards was notably advanced by Annie Oakley in 1891, adding a personal touch with a photo of herself in tartan. The early 20th century saw a rise in homemade cards, rich in decoration but often too delicate for postal services, leading to a more intimate exchange.

 

Today's Christmas cards come in an array of designs, from humorous to nostalgic, with many supporting charities through their purchase. This charitable aspect was innovatively expanded through the sale of decorative seals, a practice originating in Denmark in the early 1900s and quickly spreading across the globe.

 

Moreover, cultural traditions have imbued certain cards with special significance, like the belief in bringing good luck for the year when the first card featuring the Three Kings is displayed above the front door. This melding of festive greeting, artistic expression, and charitable giving illustrates the enduring and evolving legacy of Christmas cards, a cherished component of holiday tradition around the world.