"Should African-Americans Celebrate European Holidays: The History of Christmas, Thanksgiving & Easter" – Recorded December 2013, (4 hrs)

This Multi-Media presentation from Michael Imhotep, Executive Producer & Host of “The African History Network Show” deals with the historical origins of Christmas, Thanksgiving & Easter going back to the Pre-Christian Era and looking at the Ancient Winter & Fertility Festivals celebrated among Europeans like the Festival of Saturnalia, The Festival of Mithra, The Festival of Yule, etc. Most of these festivals took place around the Winter Solstice (around Dec. 21st) or The Vernal Equinox (March 21st). We’ll deal with the influence from various cultures, mythology, religion, literature and astronomy. Do you really know what you’re celebrating? This is a fascinating lecture that is thoroughly documented. Don’t take our word for it. Go do your own research. Topics Discussed Include: - Why is Christmas really celebrated on December 25th? - What determines when Easer is celebrated? - What are the origins of Easter? - The origins of Santa Claus - How does Astronomy play a role in the celebration of Christmas? - Where do the symbols of Christmas come from? - The origins of Zwarte Piet (Black Pete) - What has caused the popularity of gift giving? Traditionally gifts weren’t exchanged between family members. - The origins of the 7 days of the week & more!