The Puritan Ban on Christmas: A Time of Controversy
Many Americans enjoy the festive traditions of Christmas, from decorating trees to exchanging gifts. But did you know that for a significant period in history, Christmas was actually outlawed in some parts of the English-speaking world? The question "Who banned Christmas in 1647?" points to a fascinating and controversial chapter in history, primarily driven by the actions of the English Parliament under the influence of the Puritans.
The English Civil War and Puritan Influence
The year 1647 falls within the tumultuous period of the English Civil War (1642-1651). This conflict pitted the Royalists (supporters of King Charles I) against the Parliamentarians, who were largely influenced by Puritan beliefs. The Puritans were a group of English Protestants who sought to "purify" the Church of England of what they considered to be "popish" (Catholic-like) practices and excesses.
Christmas Under Scrutiny
From the Puritan perspective, Christmas was seen as a holiday steeped in pagan rituals and excessive revelry. They believed that the Bible did not explicitly command the observance of Christmas, and they viewed its celebration with feasting, drinking, and merriment as a distraction from true religious devotion. Many Puritans also resented the way Christmas had become intertwined with social hierarchies and the potential for disorder.
In 1644, two years before the specific ban mentioned in the question, the English Parliament passed an ordinance that removed the Book of Common Prayer from use. This was a significant step in their attempt to reform religious practices. Christmas was one of the many holidays abolished as part of this broader effort to simplify and purify worship.
The Ordinance of 1647
The specific event that answers "Who banned Christmas in 1647?" is the Ordinance passed by the English Parliament. This ordinance officially abolished Christmas and other feast days, including Easter and Whitsunday. The decree stated that these days were not to be observed as holidays.
From the Puritan perspective, Christmas was seen as a holiday steeped in pagan rituals and excessive revelry.
Instead of feasting and merriment, Parliament decreed that these days should be observed as days of fasting and prayer. This was a direct attempt to suppress the popular celebrations associated with Christmas and to enforce a more somber and religiously focused observance.
Enforcement and Resistance
The ban was not universally accepted. While the authorities in Puritan-controlled areas enforced the ban, there was considerable popular resistance. In London and other towns, Christmas celebrations continued in secret, and many people defied the ordinance. Shopkeepers who dared to keep their shops closed on Christmas Day were fined, and those found engaging in festive activities faced punishment.
The ban on Christmas persisted throughout the Commonwealth and Protectorate periods (1649-1660), which followed the execution of King Charles I. It was only after the Restoration of the monarchy in 1660 that Christmas celebrations began to be reinstated, although it took many years for the holiday to regain its former prominence and popularity.
The Legacy of the Christmas Ban
The ban on Christmas in 1647 serves as a powerful reminder of how deeply religious beliefs can influence societal practices and even lead to the suppression of long-held traditions. It highlights the ideological clashes of the English Civil War and the intense desire of the Puritans to shape a society based on their strict interpretation of religious doctrine.
While the ban was eventually lifted, its impact can be seen in the historical context of Christmas traditions. The holiday's revival in the 19th century, fueled by figures like Charles Dickens and Queen Victoria, helped to re-establish many of the customs we recognize today.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why did the Puritans ban Christmas?
The Puritans banned Christmas because they believed it was not biblically mandated and had become associated with pagan practices and excessive, ungodly revelry. They sought to purify religious observance and return to what they considered a more austere and devout form of worship.
Who specifically implemented the ban?
The ban was implemented by the English Parliament, which was heavily influenced by Puritan members, following the English Civil War. The Ordinance of 1647 officially abolished the observance of Christmas.
Was Christmas completely banned everywhere?
The ban was primarily enforced in Puritan-controlled areas of England and its colonies. While it was an official decree, popular resistance meant that celebrations continued in many places, often in secret.
When was Christmas made legal again?
Christmas celebrations began to be reinstated after the Restoration of the monarchy in 1660. However, it took many decades for the holiday to regain its widespread popularity and for many of its traditions to be re-established.
