History of santa

17 min read

Uncover eight centuries of festive folklore, from the Yule Lads to the Christmas Goat

Written by Emily Staniforth

At Christmas time, the practice of gift giving stands as a central element in the celebration of the winter holiday. In many cultures and countries around the world, the act of giving presents is carried out by a jolly, mystical figure known for his white beard, red coat and sleigh. Santa Claus, or Father Christmas as he is also often known, has become such a dominant part of Christmas traditions, but where did he come from and how has he managed to embed himself in so many Christmascelebrating communities?

The Life of St Nicholas

The origins of Santa Claus can be traced all the way back to Asia Minor in the 3rd century CE. At this time, a pious and influential man named Nicholas was serving as the Bishop of Myra in modern day Turkiye. Nicholas had been born in the small village of Patara and raised by his wealthy parents as a steadfast Christian, and at an early age had decided that he wanted to enter the ministry. His parents died at some point during his childhood, possibly from plague, leaving Nicholas a vast inheritance. However, the young man still strived to enter the priesthood and became a bishop. At this time in his life, his youth clearly caught the attention of others as he has been remembered by history as the Boy Bishop.

Nicholas obeyed the teachings of Jesus Christ faithfully and ensured that the fortune he had inherited upon his parents’ deaths was used to help those going through hardship and suffering. Giving away all his wealth to the needy resulted in Nicholas garnering a reputation as extremely generous and kind. He was also known for being particularly warm and caring towards children, with many stories of kindness and protection towards children associated with the bishop. One story of note, that is often credited with Nicholas’ reputation for doing good deeds and connection to children, tells of how the bishop saved three sisters from being sold into slavery by their father, who could not afford to give them a dowry for marriage, by gifting them with the money they desperately needed.

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