It wasn't a lie my friend. I just didn't present enough information in order for you to understand my point. I responded from my tablet this morning and couldn't properly address it.
What I was trying to say about the 18th century was that it was time when various writers pulled together various myths nd legends from around the world and molded them into the coherent "Christmas" myth that is observed in America (and elsewhere) today. I'm talking about the prototypical American myth of Santa Claus living at the North Pole with elves and making toys all year long. The taking a sleigh with flying reindeers and delivering presents to kids all over the world. Christmas trees, stockings, etc etc.
I would also postulate that the modern "spirit of Christmas" you referred to earlier was either invented by or at least brought into public consciousness by Charles Dickens in "A Christmas Carol". In that book he used the device of the three "spirits of Christmas" in order to tell the tale of Ebenezer Scrooges change of heart.
A real understanding of history appreciates that however myths and legends are clothed they represent universal truths. The fact that elves and reindeer are part of the legend at one time and not at another is irrelevant. St Nicholas has been part of human experience and mythology for 1800 years. The legend has evolved, is different for different times & cultures but it captures a human truth.
I think those universal shared stories, legends, myths are uniquely valuable and give testimony to the truth that humans have been the same clay throughout history, had dreams ambitions, lusts, aspired to goodness, fell to evil. It is the fabric of society woven over centuries and however you may protest, however some may commercialize it Father Christmas is part of the human story and the magic of Christmas is real except for those who turn their backs and deny its power. If you want to live in that sparse world it is your right but you cannot change the reality for others.