Russians didn't invent Father Frost. A historian explains the origins of this character.

The legendary New Year character, Father Frost, actually originated in Germany, although many believe that it was the Russians who invented him.

This was stated by historian, publicist, and author of “The Big Christmas Book,” Yaroslav Hrytsak, to the "Telegraph." According to him, the character emerged in the mid-19th century, after the defeat of the 1848 revolution known as the "Spring of Nations."

"This revolution was a revolt by the intelligentsia, the middle class, and liberals against the monarchy and for the unification of German territories into one nation. After the revolution's defeat, a German poet who participated in it created the image of Herr Winter — an elderly man who goes from house to house during Christmas, but no one invites him to the table except for the poor. Herr Winter became a symbol of Germany, which was 'suppressed' but was destined to rise again," Yaroslav Hrytsak shares with the "Telegraph."

He adds that this image originated in Germany. It is important to understand that most of the attributes of winter holidays, such as Christmas trees and decorations, are also part of German heritage. Therefore, along with these traditions, Father Frost also came to Russia and the Ukrainian lands.

Eventually, in the 1930s, by Stalin's decree, the Soviet government officially recognized him, as well as the Snow Maiden, as part of the New Year tradition.

By the way, we have previously discussed how to correctly name Father Frost in Ukrainian.

The "Telegraph" also wrote about why caroling was banned in the USSR.