In the early 1800s, northern and southern states were not only divided on the issue of slavery but on Christmas, as well. Christmas was an important part of the southern social scene, but many northerners thought the celebration was sinful. It is widely reported on the internet that the first three states to make Christmas a legal holiday were Alabama in 1836, followed by Louisiana and Arkansas in 1838. While no documents have been unearthed to prove Alabama's legislators took action on the holiday, the date is accepted by most historians.