The tune crooned by Bing Crosby is still one of the most popular Christmas songs of all time. It's endured as a favorite — despite a complicated and controversial history.

Mike Connor (Frank Sinatra): I have heard, among this clan/ You are called the forgotten man. C. K. Dexter Haven (Bing Crosby): Is that what they’re sayin’? Well, did you evah?/ What a swell party ...