How the Victorian Era helped shape modern Christmas traditions

The Victorian Era, in the 1800s, helped shape many of the modern Christmas traditions.

The installation of the Christmas tree was popularized by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert.

Christmas cards became widespread around this time, and carolling became a common custom.

It was even during this time that family-centred celebrations with big meals became common, a tradition still carried on today.

Typical gifts consisted of handmade dolls and tin toys, books, nuts, candies, and fruit were also common. Perfume, soaps and knitted gloves or hats were also given. In the late 1800s, small mechanical toys were included.

Before the mass-production era, gifts were usually handmade, practical, and small.