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2009 EASTER: AMERICAN STYLE Forwarded
From Akron Donauschwaben, German Family Society Präsident:
Sepp Geiser Easter, American Style
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.
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.
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: Everythingeaster.com)
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