Ridiculous History Podcast Summary
Episode: The First Recorded Christmas Was The Latest Birthday Party Ever
Release Date: December 24, 2024
Hosts: Ben Bowlin and Noel Brown
Production: iHeartPodcasts

Introduction: The Commercialization and Significance of Christmas

In this festive episode, hosts Ben Bowlin and Noel Brown delve into the intriguing history of Christmas, uncovering the surprising fact that the first recorded celebration of Jesus Christ's birthday occurred approximately 300 years after his death. They set the stage by highlighting the dual nature of Christmas in contemporary society.

Ben (02:08): "Christmas has become an economic necessity for a lot of businesses... it is ultimately a birthday celebration."

Noel (01:46): "Though Jesus has become a little less of the reason for the season here in the United States anyway, in favor of a bit more of a massive commercial... gift-giving blowout."

Early Christian Focus: Death Over Birth

The hosts explore how early Christians primarily commemorated significant events such as the baptism and crucifixion of Jesus, rather than his birth. This focus underscores the theological emphasis on sacrifice and resurrection within the nascent Christian community.

Ben (28:24): "December 25th, as Christmas Day, has only been a federal holiday in the United States since 1870."

Noel (28:59): "For the first 300 years or so of what we would call Christianity as we know it, no one was celebrating Christmas on December 25th."

Adoption of December 25th: Syncretism with Pagan Festivals

Ben and Noel discuss the strategic selection of December 25th for Christmas, suggesting it was influenced by existing pagan festivals such as Saturnalia and Sol Invictus. This syncretism facilitated the integration of Christian celebrations into the Roman societal framework.

Ben (33:21): "They had something called Sol Invictus, the celebration of the unconquered sun... also the Roman festival called Saturnalia."

Noel (29:51): "The origins of Christmas and its December date much more likely lie in the ancient Greco Roman traditions and more kind of pagan celebrations."

Constantine's Influence: Legalization and Christianization of the Roman Empire

A significant portion of the discussion centers around Emperor Constantine the Great's pivotal role in legitimizing and promoting Christianity within the Roman Empire. His endorsement not only ended the persecution of Christians but also paved the way for the establishment of Christian holidays.

Ben (34:13): "Constantine... is the first Roman emperor were to convert to Christianity."

Noel (35:01): "He is the guy who made it legal in the empire to practice Christianity."

The First Recorded Christmas: A Political Move?

The podcast examines the possibility that the establishment of December 25th was a calculated move by Constantine to supplant existing pagan festivals, thereby easing the transition to Christianity and reducing resistance among the populace.

Ben (35:46): "They may have thought choosing this holiday for Christianity would weaken the celebrations of existing pagan schools of thought."

Noel (36:22): "He probably had some other political considerations with picking December 25th as this celebration for sure."

Delayed Celebration and Formalization in the Middle Ages

Despite the early adoption of December 25th, it wasn't until the 9th century that Christmas became a major Christian festival. The hosts highlight how traditions and widespread observance took centuries to embed fully into Christian practice.

Ben (37:33): "Christmas was not a major Christian festival... only started celebrating the birthday of Jesus Christ in like a very big deal way around the 9th century CE."

Noel (37:40): "People only started celebrating the birthday of Jesus Christ in a very big deal way around the 9th century CE."

Cultural Syncretism and Lasting Legacy

Ben and Noel reflect on the enduring legacy of these early decisions, noting how Christmas has evolved into a blend of religious devotion and secular celebration. They touch upon various traditions that have emerged, influenced by both Christian and pagan customs.

Ben (33:53): "Mitra, who is kind of the Pepsi to the Coke here... an ancient deity of covenants, light."

Noel (26:56): "All of these things are just kind of marking the season too. Just kind of hopefully encouraging a spirit of end of the year reflection and generosity."

Conclusion: The "Ridiculous" Late Birthday Party

Wrapping up, the hosts emphasize the ironic and somewhat "ridiculous" nature of celebrating Jesus Christ's birthday centuries after his life, highlighting the complexities of historical traditions shaping modern festivities.

Noel (39:20): "That's sort of our number one criteria for this show. That's not true. We talk about stuff that's not ridiculous all the time. We just try to bring that ridiculous flavor..."

Ben (39:35): "It's kind of ridiculous, right? That's a super late birthday party party."

Closing Remarks

Ben and Noel extend their gratitude to listeners, acknowledging the blend of historical insight and humor that defines their exploration of "ridiculous" moments in history. They tease future episodes and encourage listeners to engage with the rich tapestry of historical anecdotes the podcast offers.

Noel (39:35): "We just try to bring that ridiculous flavor that you know and love even to the heaviest of topics."

Ben (40:56): "For more podcasts from iHeartRadio, visit the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen to your favorite shows."

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Ben (02:08): "Christmas has become an economic necessity for a lot of businesses... it is ultimately a birthday celebration."

• Noel (29:51): "The origins of Christmas and its December date much more likely lie in the ancient Greco Roman traditions and more kind of pagan celebrations."

• Ben (35:46): "They may have thought choosing this holiday for Christianity would weaken the celebrations of existing pagan schools of thought."

• Noel (39:20): "That's sort of our number one criteria for this show... a super late birthday party."

This episode of Ridiculous History masterfully intertwines humor with historical analysis, shedding light on the unexpected timing of Christmas celebrations and their deep-rooted connections to ancient traditions. Whether you're a history buff or simply curious about the quirks of cultural practices, Ben and Noel provide an enlightening and entertaining exploration of one of the world's most celebrated holidays.