The Legend of Santa Claus first begins hundreds of years ago with a monk named Saint Nicholas. It is said that Nicholas was born around 280 AD in Patara, near Myra in modern day Turkey. There are many stories and legends surrounding Saint Nicholas. The most popular legend is that he gave away all his belongings and wealth and traveled near and far to help the sick and poor. Another popular story is that he saved three sisters who were being sold into slavery or prostitution by their father. It is said that he gave them a dowry so that they could each be married. Over time he became known as the protector of children and sailors. Each year on the anniversary of his death on December 6 a great feast was held in honor of him. By the Renaissance he was the most well known saint. Saint Nicholas entered the American popular culture in the late 18th century. Santa Claus was developed through the name Sinter Klaas. Sinter Klaas was the shortened form of Sint Nikolaas, which was the Dutch spelling for Saint Nicholas. The American version of Santa Claus was first used when a business man, John Pintard, gave out woodcarvings of a fat Santa, giving out toys, with stockings hung by the chimney with care.
Source:
"Sinter Claus in America - History.com - Christmas in New York." The History Channel - Home Page. Web. 03 Jan. 2010..
Source:
"Sinter Claus in America - History.com - Christmas in New York." The History Channel - Home Page. Web. 03 Jan. 2010.
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