Early representations of the gift-giver from Church history and folklore, especially Saint Nicholas, merged with the English character Father Christmas to create the mythical character known to the rest of the English-speaking world as "Santa Claus" …

Feb 16, 2010 · Find out more about the history of Santa Claus from his earliest origins to the shopping mall Santas of today, and discover how two New Yorkers—Clement Clark Moore and Thomas Nast—were...

Dec 24, 2024 · Santa Claus, legendary figure who is the traditional patron of Christmas in the United States and other countries, bringing gifts to children. His popular image is based on traditions associated with Saint Nicholas, a 4th-century Christian saint who is typically depicted in red bishop’s robes.

Dec 10, 2020 · During one point in history, Santa's clothes varied from a bishop's robe to a Norse huntsman's animal skin clothes. During the Civil War, Thomas Nast, a cartoonist, drew Santa for the Harper's Weekly as a small elf-like figure who supported the Union.

Dec 22, 2020 · The story of Santa Claus seems to be a tale as old as time, but the Christmas icon actually has his roots in a real-life person—the Catholic figure of St. Nicholas.

Dec 25, 2018 · Any kid can tell you where Santa Claus is from—the North Pole. But his historical journey is even longer and more fantastic than his annual, one-night circumnavigation of the globe.

Oct 30, 2024 · Surprisingly, Santa Claus’ origins can be traced back to a real person: Saint Nicholas of Myra, a revered 4th-century Christian bishop known for his generosity, who eventually evolved through centuries of cultural adaptation into the Santa Claus we recognize today.

Dec 17, 2019 · Santa Claus finds his origin in Saint Nicholas, a devoted Christian bishop from the 4th century. His life of generosity and compassion offers a powerful reminder of Christ’s call to love...

Long before the red-suited Santa Claus became a fixture of Christmas, the roots of his story were already taking shape in pre-Christian and pagan traditions. The origins can be traced back to the ancient Roman winter festival of Saturnalia, celebrated in mid-December.

Dec 1, 2023 · From the generous acts of Saint Nicholas to the Dutch celebration of Sinterklaas, the Americanization of Santa in literature and illustrations, and the iconic imagery solidified by Coca-Cola, Santa Claus has evolved into a global symbol of joy and gift-giving.