Which U.S. President insisted on putting lit candles on the White House Christmas tree, even though it was a fire hazard?

The answer to this question is Calvin Coolidge, the 30th President of the United States. Despite the potential risks and fire hazards, Coolidge was known for his traditional approach to Christmas decorations. During his presidency from 1923 to 1929, he insisted on lighting real candles on the White House Christmas tree.

This decision was not without controversy, as many people were concerned about the safety implications. However, Coolidge remained steadfast in his belief that the charm and beauty of real candles outweighed the potential dangers.

It is important to note that during Coolidge's time, fire safety regulations were not as strict as they are today. The use of lit candles on Christmas trees was a common practice in many households. However, the White House being the symbol of the nation, the risks associated with this tradition were heightened.

Despite the concerns, Coolidge's insistence on lighting candles on the White House Christmas tree did not result in any major incidents. The Secret Service and White House staff took extra precautions, closely monitoring the tree and ensuring that it was well-maintained throughout the holiday season.

Today, the White House Christmas tree is adorned with safer electric lights, which have become the standard practice for Christmas tree decoration. This change was implemented in the interest of fire safety, reflecting the evolving understanding of the potential risks associated with traditional candle lighting.

In conclusion, Calvin Coolidge, the 30th U.S. President, insisted on putting lit candles on the White House Christmas tree, despite the fire hazard. His traditional approach to Christmas decorations highlighted the charm and beauty of real candles, although this practice has since been replaced with safer alternatives like electric lights.

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