Happy Hanukkah (Natal Pequeno)In inquisitorial trial records from Portugal historians have found references to Natal Pequeno (little Christmas). Scholars generally agree that these references point to Hanukkah, not Christmas itself.Several reasons make Hanukkah especially suitable for this disguise: The obvious reasons were calendar proximity, light symbolism, and domestic celebration (at home). Calling it Natal Pequeno allowed families to say, if questioned: “We are just marking a small Christmas custom” rather than admitting to a Jewish festival.Picture: Heavy mid-20th century solid silver Portuguese Hanukkah Menorah