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SANTA CLAUS
The image is instantly familiar. A portly, jolly man with flushed cheeks, a red suit with a big belt buckle, and a white, flowing beard. While he seems timeless, it wasn't until 1863 that this famous image appeared, when Thomas Nast, a young German immigrant to America, drew him for the first time. Santa's famous look has been associated with the old Norse gods Woden and Thor, but he is identified with St. Nicholas, a Christian martyr who died around the year 343. Believed to always help the needy, St. Nicholas' legend grew with the centuries and he became the patron saint of children. St. Nicholas was a bishop in what is now Turkey. He was born in a wealthy family and inherited a lot of money. |
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He was a generous man and soon, his generosity became legendary. He was even attributed some miracles. His name has changed through time. Originally, he was known in Holland as "Sinterklaas," which was the name Dutch immigrants to America gave some religious characters who passed gifts to people. Later, in North America he started being called Santa Claus. Some call him Papa Noel, The Jolly Old Man or even Saint Nicholas. But the name is not what's important. This Christmas, like every year, Santa will come from the North Pole in his sleigh drawn by reindeer to bring gifts down the chimney for the children who have been nice. By the way, have you been nice this year?
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