Easter History 

Eggs have historically been seen as a sign of fertility, which could be part of the reason that they are used as symbols for the Easter holiday. However, there are also historical connections behind the eggs. 

In the 19th century Peter Carl Fabergé was commissioned by Russian Czar Alexander III to create jeweled eggs as presents for his wife. According to a PBS article, the Czar required that "each egg must be unique, and each must contain a suitable surprise for the Empress." 

The next Czar, Nicholas II, continued the tradition until the Russian revolution where he was forced to abdicate the throne and no longer commissioned eggs, according to the PBS article. 

Another theory for why the egg is a popular symbol at Easter relates back to the church. According to a History Channel video, the Christian Church banned the eating of eggs during Lent for centuries and it became a celebration at Easter to eat eggs. 

This sometimes creepy tradition for Easter also has historical context. According to a Guardian article, the Pagan goddess Eostre, who is celebrated at the spring holiday, consorted with a hare and may be the inspiration for the Easter bunny. 

Another theory, according to a History Channel video, is that the tradition popped up in 17th-century Europe because bunnies represented fertility and spring. Settlers then brought the tradition over to America. 

In other countries, different animals are known for bringing the Easter treats. In Switzerland the cuckoo bird brings treats and in Germany some children wait for the Easter fox, rooster or stork. 

According to a U.S. News and World report article, in 2015 consumers said they would spend around $2.2 billion on Easter candy and 1.5 billion marshmallow peeps would be consumed. According to the National Confectioners Association, over 16 billion jelly beans are made in the U.S. each year for Easter. 

However according to a History Channel article, candy wasn't an Easter staple in America until the 1930s. That's when candy manufacturers made the connection between the shape of jelly beans and eggs and the candy craze took off.