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Some Halloween Traditions Have Roots in Agriculture
Wednesday, October 31, 2012    
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Many Halloween traditions celebrated today in Nebraska have agriculture roots, according to an agriculture historian.

Anne Effland is an agriculture historian and says everyday agriculture practices in 800 BC became the legends of today.

October 31st was the last day of the Celtic New Year and livestock was rounded up and brought closer to the home front. That could have led to today's legends of Druid animal slaughter rituals.

The ritual of bonfires on Halloween night was part of their end-of-harvest festivities as well as to keep livestock warm and alive during the winter months.

October 31st is known as Halloween, Samhain or Lord of the Dead day depending on cultures.

The final day of the year, those who passed away within the last year returned to visit their family and friends so the Celts wore costumes.

(Copyright 2012 by The Nebraska Radio Network.  All Rights Reserved.)

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