As a kid we all dreamed of having Santa visit us in our home at Christmas Eve to bring our gifts of wonderful toys, candies and clothes. This fat, jolly old man in red costume bringing bags of gifts has been our traditional “uncle” during Christmas time. But as you grow up, haven't it crossed your mind where Santa really come from and how it forms part of the Holiday cheer?
When you read books or look for sources online, there are different stories that explain the origin of Santa Claus. Here are two of the most common explanation were Santa came.
In Encyclopedia Britannica, Santa was explained to be a real human named Saint Nicholas. He was a generous and selfless man that was born in Lycian seaport at the city of Patara and soon became the bishop of Myra.
His reputation is well known to the poor and oppressed and has been known to give marriage offering to 3 poor women during his time. He also said to restore the lives of 3 children who were murdered by a butcher.
When he died, his remains was buried in Myra before some Italian sailors stole his remains and brought to Bari, Italy.
The first image of Santa was drawn by a German borne cartoonist named Thomas Nast. This image has become the most popular and Mr. Nast has been credited the most.
Below is his illustration which was first published in 1863 Harper's Weekly edition.
The illustration depicts the white beard Santa Claus pulled by a reindeer when he visited the Civil War camp and gave gifts to the soldiers and their children.
(Source: Son of the South)
