untangling the history of Christmas lights

Question

(Over at the Edison shop, Johnson saw an opportunity. Setting up a tree by the street-side window of his parlor, Johnson hand-wired 80 red, white and blue light bulbs and strung them together around it, and placed the trunk on a revolving pedestal, all powered by a generator. Then he called a reporter. “At the rear of the beautiful parlors, was a large Christmas tree presenting a most picturesque and uncanny 5aspect,” wrote W.A. Croffut, a veteran writer for the Detroit Post and Tribune. “It was brilliantly lighted with... eighty lights in all encased in these dainty glass eggs, and about equally divided between white, red and blue.... One can hardly imagine anything prettier.” The lights drew a crowd as passers-by stopped to peer at the glowing marvel. Johnson turned his stunt into a tradition; he also pioneered the practice of doing more each year: An 1884 New York Times article counted 120 bulbs on his dazzling tree.)
6. How does paragraph 5 contribute to the development of ideas in the text

Answer 1

Paragraph 5 contributes to the development of ideas in the text by illustrating a significant moment in the history of Christmas lights, showcasing how innovation and creativity can transform holiday celebrations. By detailing Johnson's initiative to use electric lights on a Christmas tree, the paragraph highlights the impact of technology on cultural practices. The vivid description of the lights and the resulting spectacle evokes a sense of wonder, emphasizing the aesthetic appeal of this new form of decoration. Additionally, the reference to increased bulb counts in subsequent years suggests a trend towards more elaborate displays, marking the beginning of a tradition that would evolve over time. This progression not only underscores the growing popularity of electric lights during the holidays but also sets the stage for exploring the broader implications of such innovations in festive customs. Overall, this paragraph serves as a pivotal point in illustrating the origins and evolution of Christmas lighting as a communal spectacle rooted in creativity and technological advancement.