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Explore the fascinating history of Halloween, tracing its roots from the Celtic festival of Samhain to its transformation into a festive community celebration in America. Discover how Irish settlers introduced traditions during the 1840s potato famine, including storytelling, parties, and trick-or-treating. Learn about the shift from pranks to treats in the 1930s, the rise of Halloween costumes, and today's culture of fun, while also examining myths such as poisoned treats. Join the discussion on Halloween's significance and evolution through the years.
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From Fright to Fun A History of Halloween
The “First” Halloween • Halloween started as a “fire festival” with the Celtics as Samhain • Also known as the eve before All Saints Day in the early Catholic culture • November 1st served as the day Catholics and Romans honored saints. Romans also prayed for the dead.
Halloween’s Trip to America • The potato famine of 1840 brought over many Irish settlers • They introduced many customs including Halloween • This was a time where they had parties and told stories
Trick or Treat? • Trick or treating started at pranks played on neighbors • Wore masks to conceal their identity • Birth of costumes on Halloween • It became more and more violent • People started to associate Halloween with fear • More police forces
Trick or Treat • In the 1930s people began to bribe children with a “treat” instead of a “trick” • Trick or treating became a huge part of Halloween • Allowed children a night of happiness and free candy during rough times
Poisoned Treats? • Media reports of poisoned candy • Studies show that this many not be fully true • Cover up for a murder • Still check your treats!
Halloween Clip • http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R-VRAemIvbI&feature=player_embedded
Discussion Questions • What other factors do you think influenced the making of trick or treating? • How do you think Halloween has evolved since its early days? • Do you think Halloween should be celebrated as a holiday?