The "12 Days of Christmas" is a traditional Christmas carol that originated in England during the 17th century. The exact origins of the song are not known, but it is believed to have been a teaching tool to help children learn about the Christian faith and the importance of charitable giving. The song is based on a French nursery rhyme called "Le Treiziesme Aire," which means "the 13th day," and it tells the story of a lover giving gifts to his true love over the course of 12 days. The gifts in the song are believed to represent the gifts of the Magi