Breaking History From the Archives: Why Jews Wrote Your Favorite Christmas Songs
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Dec 10, 2025 David Lehman, a renowned poet and author of 'A Fine Romance,' dives into the surprising history of Jewish songwriters behind America's beloved Christmas tunes. They explore how immigrants like Sammy Cahn and Irving Berlin shaped the holiday's soundtrack, noting the cultural influences that fostered their creativity. The conversation highlights the inclusive nature of Christmas music, framing it as a uniquely American tradition. Listeners will discover the poignant stories behind iconic songs and the rich tapestry of musical influence that defined the holiday spirit.
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Christmas As Secular Mood
- Many iconic American Christmas songs are secular moods about winter and home rather than religious stories.
- These secular tunes became the emotional core of modern American Christmas celebrations.
Jewish Roots Of Christmas Classics
- A surprising majority of classic American Christmas songwriters were Jewish immigrants or children of immigrants.
- Figures include Sammy Cahn, Mel Tormé, Frank Loesser, Johnny Marks, and Irving Berlin.
Christmas As Time Of Peril In Europe
- In Europe, Christmas often coincided with anti-Jewish violence and legislation, making it a time of fear for Jews.
- That historical terror contrasts with the inclusive American Christmas experience for many Jewish immigrants.
