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The Christmas tree
The Christmas tree has its origins in Celtic and Nordic pagan traditions, in which conifers symbolised life at the winter solstice. In the Middle Ages, the Christian Church reinterpreted this tradition in connection with Christ's birth. In the eighteenth century, German Protestants popularised the practice of decorating a tree inside the home. This custom then spread throughout Europe and North America, becoming the universal festive symbol we know today.
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Greeting cards
Greeting cards originated in England in 1843, when Sir Henry Cole created the first commercial Christmas card. Helped by improvements in printing and lower postal rates, they spread rapidly. In the twentieth century, companies such as Hallmark made them popular worldwide. Today, physical and electronic cards remain a favoured way of expressing affection and goodwill during the festive season.