Merry Christmas to the “wonderful soldiers of China” and to “Governor Justin Trudeau of Canada” and “the people of Greenland.” As for the 37 inmates on federal death row who recently received commutations from President Biden? “GO TO HELL!”

Such were the typically irreverent holiday greetings issued by President-elect Donald J. Trump on Christmas. In his messages on Truth Social, the online platform owned by his media company, Mr. Trump once again flaunted his penchant for smashing the norms and politesse that past occupants of the White House have often observed in their public pronouncements.

Mr. Trump’s Christmas sentiments addressed several of his recent concerns, including asserting U.S. control over the Panama Canal and Greenland, which he covets for its reserves of rare earth minerals needed for advanced technology.

“We had the Greatest Election in the History of our Country, a bright light is now shining over the U.S.A.,” Mr. Trump wrote, “and, in 26 days, we will, MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN. MERRY CHRISTMAS!”

Here’s a look at how some past presidents have addressed the nation on Christmas, in times of war, recession and instability.