America: Facts vs. Fiction Season 3 Episode 12 Unwrapping the Holidays

Unwrapping the Holidays is the twelfth episode of season 3 of America: Facts vs. Fiction. The episode explores the holiday season, delving into the origins and traditions of some of the most beloved holidays in America. The episode focuses on three holidays - Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa - and seeks to separate fact from fiction when it comes to the history and traditions of these holidays.

The episode begins with Christmas, which is arguably the most widely celebrated holiday in America. The host starts by looking at the story of Santa Claus, a character who has become synonymous with Christmas. However, the episode seeks to uncover the truth about the origins of Santa Claus. Was he really based on a Bishop named Saint Nicholas, as the legend goes? Or is there more to the story? The episode also looks at the tradition of Christmas trees, exploring where this tradition originated and how it has evolved over time.

Next, the episode moves on to Hanukkah, the Jewish festival of lights. The host explains the history behind the holiday, which commemorates the rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem. The episode explores some common misconceptions about Hanukkah and seeks to set the record straight. For example, many people believe that Hanukkah is the Jewish equivalent of Christmas, but this is not accurate. The episode also addresses the idea that Hanukkah is a celebration of military victory, which is not entirely accurate either.

Finally, the episode focuses on Kwanzaa, an African-American holiday that is celebrated from December 26th to January 1st. The host explores the origins of the holiday and explains why it was created. Kwanzaa was first celebrated in 1966 as a way to honor African-American culture and heritage. The episode looks at the seven principles of Kwanzaa, which are values that are central to the holiday. These include unity, self-determination, and collective work and responsibility. The episode also explains some common misconceptions about Kwanzaa, such as the idea that it is a religious holiday (it is not) and that it is a replacement for Christmas (it is not).

Throughout the episode, the host consults with a variety of experts, including historians, academics, and cultural experts. They offer insight into the history and traditions of these holidays, helping to separate fact from fiction. The episode also includes plenty of visuals, including historical images, artwork, and photographs of holiday celebrations from around the country.

In conclusion, Unwrapping the Holidays is an informative and entertaining episode that seeks to shed light on the origins and traditions of some of America's most beloved holidays. Through interviews with experts and a deep dive into history, the episode separates fact from fiction, providing viewers with a better understanding of the holidays we celebrate. Whether you're a Christmas, Hanukkah, or Kwanzaa enthusiast (or all three), this episode offers plenty of insights and information that will deepen your appreciation for these holidays.