The History of Halloween and its Celtic Origins

Jack-o’-lanterns have become one of the most iconic symbols of Halloween. Their origin story isn’t exactly well documented, so tracing their roots involves some folklore, some agriculture, and literary influence. 

Research:

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• Grannan, Cydney. "Why Do We Carve Pumpkins at Halloween?". Encyclopedia Britannica, 25 Oct. 2017, https://www.britannica.com/story/why-do-we-carve-pumpkins-at-halloween
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• “Will-o’-the Wisp: Monstrous Flame or Scientific Phenomenon.” Monstrum. PBS. October 5, 2021. https://www.pbs.org/video/will-o-the-wisp-monstrous-flame-or-scientific-phenomenon-dsugln/
• Britannica, The Editors of Encyclopaedia. "Samhain". Encyclopedia Britannica, 18 Sep. 2023, https://www.britannica.com/topic/Samhain
• Irving, Washington. “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow.” https://www.gutenberg.org/files/41/41-h/41-h.htm
• Allen, Ida Bailey. “Try Jack-o’-Lantern Halloween Supper.” Quad-City Times. Oct. 31, 1952. https://www.newspapers.com/image/301873757/?terms=jack%20o%27lantern&match=1
• Huntley, Andrew. “The Jack-o-Lantern’s Origins.” Carnegie Museum of Natural History. https://carnegiemnh.org/the-jack-o-lanterns-origins/
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