Last Updated on November 9, 2023 by Kimberlee Johnson
As someone who loves giving gifts and a holiday fan, I’ve always been fascinated by the beauty of Christmas presents.
We exchange tokens of love and goodwill every year, but have you ever wondered, “What was the world’s largest Christmas gift?”
Today, I’ll share this remarkable gift that didn’t come from Santa Claus or any person and how it became a symbol of goodwill and unity on a global scale.
What Christmas Present Was The Largest In The World?
On Christmas Day in 1886, the United States received an astonishing gift from France – the Statue of Liberty.
This iconic monument stands as a symbol of freedom and democracy, towering at an impressive 225 tons in weight.
A colossal copper sculpture, the Statue of Liberty was designed by French sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi and dedicated as a gesture of friendship between France and the United States.
“Christmas is most truly Christmas when we celebrate it by giving the light of love to those who need it most.”
– Ruth Carter Stapleton, American Biographera
Standing 151 feet tall, the colossal statue symbolized hope and liberty for millions of New World immigrants.
It remains one of history’s most significant and cherished Christmas presents, embodying the enduring values of liberty and unity between nations.
But what exactly is a Christmas Eve gift?
What Color Was The Statue of Liberty When It Was First Built?
When the Statue of Liberty was first unveiled in 1886, it had a brownish color, resembling the color of a penny.
However, over the years, a natural process called oxidation transformed its appearance.
By 1906, the statue had taken on its iconic green patina, a thin layer of corrosion that forms on copper surfaces. This green patina gives the Statue of Liberty its distinctive look.
It is a protective layer, preserving the underlying copper for centuries, as evidenced by ancient copper and bronze artifacts.
What Did People Receive For Christmas In The 1800s?
In the late 1800s, Christmas gifts had a distinctly homemade and practical flair. Gifting preserves, jams, jellies, and candies was a common tradition [1].
Needlework, such as hand-embroidered linens or delicate doilies, showcased the artistry and patience of gift-givers.
“The world’s largest Christmas gift, the Statue of Liberty, serves as a towering reminder that the greatest gifts are often those that inspire generations.”
– Howkapow Gift Site
For those with a green thumb, potted plants were a popular choice, bringing a touch of nature into the home during the winter months.
These gifts, born from personal effort and creativity, reflected the genuine spirit of Christmas and the importance of sharing love and warmth with friends and family.
What Did Children In 1900 Receive For Christmas?
In the early 1900s, Christmas gifts for children began to take on a more modern and innovative twist. A standout among these gifts was the newly popular teddy bear.
These soft, cuddly bears were named after President Theodore “Teddy” Roosevelt, who had famously spared the life of a bear on a hunting trip, leading to the creation of this fluffy stuff.
Additionally, the early 1900s saw the rise of the personal, hand-held camera by Kodak.
This innovation allowed children to capture their memories and experiences, making it a prized gift during the first decade of the century.
These gifts marked a shift towards more playful and technologically advanced presents for children, setting the stage for the evolving nature of Christmas gifts in the years to come.
What Are The Greatest Gifts In Human History?
Throughout history, humanity has been blessed with remarkable gifts that transcend time and culture, and one of them is the Koh-i-Noor Diamond, a dazzling gem that has captured the world’s imagination with its beauty and mystery.
The Taj Mahal, an architectural masterpiece, is an eternal symbol of love and devotion.
Next, the Hanging Gardens of Babylon, a marvel of engineering and horticulture, evoked wonder in ancient times.
Lastly, the Trojan Horse, a cunning wartime ruse, remains a legendary tale of strategy and deception.
These gifts, whether as precious gems, architectural marvels, or strategic deceptions, have transcended their materiality, leaving an enduring legacy in human history.
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FAQs
What were the first three Christmas gifts?
The first three Christmas gifts were gold, frankincense, and myrrh.
These gifts, offered by the Magi, symbolized wealth, spirituality, and anointing oil, signifying the occasion’s significance.
Check out these Christmas gifts for a 90-year-old here.
What was the first Christmas item invented?
The first Christmas item invented is widely considered to be the Christmas cracker. It was created by London-based confectioner and baker Tom Smith.
In 1940, which Christmas present was the most popular?
1940, during World War II, the most popular Christmas present was soap [2].
Due to wartime rationing and shortages, everyday essentials like soap were highly valued and practical gifts, reflecting the challenging times and the importance of basic hygiene.
What are Americans’ least favorite gifts to give at Christmas?
Some of the least favorite gifts Americans give during Christmas include plants, beauty products, and alcoholic beverages.
Final Words
In the history of Christmas gifts, one stands out as truly monumental.
On that memorable Christmas Day in 1886, France presented the United States with a colossal 225-ton statue: the Statue of Liberty.
Initially brown, like a shiny penny, it eventually transformed into its signature green patina through natural oxidation.
This iconic symbol of liberty and freedom has remained an enduring testament to the bond between nations and the passage of time.
It’s a reminder that some gifts aren’t wrapped in glittering paper and bows but are etched into the fabric of history.
The Statue of Liberty’s message of unity and hope continues to shine brightly like the flame held high in her hand.
References:
- https://www.foodandwine.com/condiments/jams/differences-between-7-types-fruit-preserves
- https://www.healthline.com/health/how-to-make-soap
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