Homework Help: Social Studies: World History: History of Halloween

Halloween is held on October 31, the eve of All Saints' Day, and observed with traditional games and customs. The word is derived from medieval England's All Hallows' eve. In Old English, hallow means "saint".

Many of the Halloween customs predate Christianity, going back instead to Celtic practices associated with November 1, the beginning of winter and the Celtic new year.

Witches and other evil spirits were believed to roam the earth on this evening, playing tricks on human beings to mark the season of diminishing sunlight. Bonfires were lit, offerings were made of dainty foods and sweets, and people would disguise themselves as one of the roaming spirits, to avoid demonic persecution.

Survival of these early practices can be found in countries of Celtic influence today, such as the United States where children go from door to door in scary costumes demanding "trick or treat."

Homework Help: Social Studies: World History

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