2007-12-02 23:05:35 · 12 answers · asked by Anonymous in Society & Culture ➔ Cultures & Groups ➔ Other - Cultures & Groups
Santa Claus, also known as Saint Nicholas, Father Christmas, Kris Kringle, or simply "Santa" is a historical and legendary character associated with bringing gifts on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day. The popular North American form Santa Claus originated as a mispronunciation of Dutch Sinterklaas, which in turn is a contracted form of Sint Nicolaas (Saint Nicholas). However, the Dutch Sinterklaas is different from Santa Claus in many ways: see the section on Dutch folklore. The Dutch word for Santa Claus is Kerstman ("Christmas man"). Santa Claus has a suit that comes in many colors depending on the country. The most common depiction (red with white sleeves, collar, and belt) became the more popular image in the United States in the mid-to-late 19th century.
2007-12-02 23:07:33 · answer #1 · answered by SY 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
A jolly man in a red suit who lives up at the north pole with Mrs. clause, elves, and his reindeer.
2007-12-02 23:08:49 · answer #2 · answered by Sierra 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The true story of Santa Claus begins with Nicholas, who was born during the third century in the village of Patara. At the time the area was Greek and is now on the southern coast of Turkey. His wealthy parents, who raised him to be a devout Christian, died in an epidemic while Nicholas was still young. Obeying Jesus' words to "sell what you own and give the money to the poor," Nicholas used his whole inheritance to assist the needy, the sick, and the suffering. He dedicated his life to serving God and was made Bishop of Myra while still a young man. Bishop Nicholas became known throughout the land for his generosity to the those in need, his love for children, and his concern for sailors and ships.
Under the Roman Emperor Diocletian, who ruthlessly persecuted Christians, Bishop Nicholas suffered for his faith, was exiled and imprisoned. The prisons were so full of bishops, priests, and deacons, there was no room for the real criminals—murderers, thieves and robbers. After his release, Nicholas attended the Council of Nicaea in AD 325. He died December 6, AD 343 in Myra and was buried in his cathedral church, where a unique relic, called manna, formed in his grave. This liquid substance, said to have healing powers, fostered the growth of devotion to Nicholas. The anniversary of his death became a day of celebration, St. Nicholas Day.
Through the centuries many stories and legends have been told of St. Nicholas' life and deeds. These accounts help us understand his extraordinary character and why he is so beloved and revered as protector and helper of those in need.
⥠nikki
2007-12-02 23:07:36 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 2⤋
It's "Santa Claus." And he is a fat, jolly man who likes cookies, coca-cola and giving children presents.
2007-12-02 23:08:37 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
kris kringle is his name and a fictional character called santa claus for children
2007-12-02 23:14:18 · answer #5 · answered by Psychologist In The House 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The fat dude that comes down the chimney and brings you gifts. The real questions is, how does he get back up the chimney?
2007-12-02 23:08:32 · answer #6 · answered by mickelsen123 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
an old man which lives at the north pole
2007-12-02 23:07:19 · answer #7 · answered by dawson_brister 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
the guy who allegedly gives nice children gifts.
2007-12-02 23:07:54 · answer #8 · answered by sarah 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
his name is Kris Kringle
2007-12-03 00:19:39 · answer #9 · answered by Miss Rhonda 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
A very sinister being!
2007-12-02 23:28:51 · answer #10 · answered by Monkster 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋