The Puritans, who were the dominant political force in England from the mid-1640s until 1660, were devoutly Christian, but they also were extremely critical of traditional celebrations of Christmas. Why did Puritans (who were Calvinists) object to traditional practices relating to how the English celebrated Christmas? How did Puritans believe Christmas should be observed, and why did they believe this? And how successful were the Puritans at persuading the English people to reform their practices relating to Christmas? In the final analysis, did Puritan attitudes towards Christmas increase public support for the Puritan cause or decrease it?
Introduction – the Puritans and Christmas
The Puritans ...
