Consumer Rites

Discover the fascinating journey of American holiday celebrations in Consumer Rites by Leigh Eric Schmidt. Published by Princeton University Press in 1997, this insightful paperback spans 384 pages and provides a compelling reassessment of the 'consumer rites' often criticized by social commentators. Schmidt explores the historical context in which Puritans and religious reformers sought to diminish holiday festivities, only to see them romanticized and reinvented in the 19th and 20th centuries. This cultural history delves into the commercialization of American holidays, shedding light on how these traditions evolved over time. Perfect for readers interested in American history, cultural studies, and the sociology of customs, Consumer Rites is an essential read for anyone wanting to understand the intricate relationship between religion, society, and consumer culture in the United States.