Christmas Dinner brought to you by Atlas Copco
As Christmas fast approaches, every family is getting ready for the magical day. The traditional British meal features a luscious turkey with only the finest selection of vegetables, stuffing and roast potatoes. Spending time with the family appears to be the most important element to the festive season, second place goes to a proper British meal. But how did the turkey receive an award like this? And what does Atlas Copco have to do with this?
Reading time: 4 minutes (600 words)
Warning: The following article contains historical facts, figures and general information regarding a festive dinner most fowl. Please note that the content here may be unpalatable for small children, feathered friends and sensitive vegetarians. Let us go back in history for this matter, guiding you through. While we recognise a browned, juicy turkey nestled among bowls, tureens and plates laden with sweet and savoury side dishes as the iconic Christmas image, the first Christmas celebration was a far cry from this sumptuous scene.
Just bear in mind that turkeys are a native North American bird, so their addition to British Christmases is fairly unusual. Turkeys were imported into Britain in 1526, and back then they were far less expensive than chickens. The actual Christmas tradition came from Henry VIII who is rumoured to have been the first British monarch to have eaten turkey at Christmas, but the winged creature dropped out of utilisation as a Christmas dinner in England under Oliver Cromwell. When Queen Victoria rose to her position of authority, trade with the USA had revived and turkeys became available again in the UK and Ireland. However, the price for a turkey was only affordable at first to the more wealthy section of the Victorian population, until it became less costly. By the 1950s the lower costs combined with its perfect size for a middle class family gathering led it to become the dominant Christmas day choice of meat, ousting beef and goose.
Needless to say with its increasing popularity that turkey production and sales took off. Atlas Copco is more than happy to be a part of the manufacturing process, as our vacuum solutions are an essential component of this festive meal.
Many of us will take time on Christmas Day to reflect on all of the positive things in our lives so, when you are sharing your festive meal with the ones you love, remember that there is a little piece of Atlas Copco on your delicious plate!
Enjoy the holidays!
Get the latest news and stories from Atlas Copco straight to your inbox Subscribe to our monthly Fresh Air newsletter