In 1875 Christmas cards arrived in the United States. A man named Louise Prang introduced the first complete line of Christmas cards, but 15 years later however, there was competition and he was forced out of business. By the 1900's, many of America's leading greeting card companies began and the American public began to adopt the idea of exchanging cards. Overtime, cards began to reflect the expression of social events. Depression era cards expressed hope that better times were ahead. During World War II many Christmas cards depicted Uncle Sam and other patriotic themes. It was about this time that Santa Claus also became popular on cards. During the cold war, humorous cards began to develop, which continues to be popular today. By the 1960's there was radical change in America, some of which still affect the industry today. Traditional cards, which were generally marketed toward middle aged housewives, did not hold much appeal for the baby boomers. The rebellious baby boomers represented a political market not reached by conventional greeting card products. Today, diversity has become a major theme. Commercial card companies are trying to offer something for everyone. The term "micro marketing" has become the trend where such select markets are targeted. An example of this, are cards in foreign languages, afro-american cards, large print cards for people with low vision, and activity cards for children.(Vintage Valentine Photo credit: Freeparking's Photostream)
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