what does the candy cane symbolize for christmas

The candy cane is a symbol of Christmas that has its roots in the 17th century. It was originally used as a symbol of Christmas in Germany, where it was known as the "shepherd's staff." The candy cane was believed to represent the shepherd's crook, which was used to protect sheep from wolves. It was also believed to represent the staff of Saint Nicholas, who was the patron saint of children. In the United States, the candy cane began to be used as a symbol of Christmas in the 19th century, when it was associated with the Christmas tree.