Yes. To both.
In other words, he's a real person who over the years has become more and more fictional as the legends around him grew.
2007-12-24 04:10:42
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answer #1
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answered by Anonymous
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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.
2007-12-24 04:07:16
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answer #2
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answered by Anonymous
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He is a rich mix of people and myths. He is celebrated differently all over Europe In Hungary for instance he is not connected to Christmas but is celebrated in early December as Saint Nicholas's festivals which were replacements for pagan festivals. Saint Nicholas gave gifts to girls of poor family’s so they could marry and avoid a life of prostitution
2007-12-24 04:19:57
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answer #3
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answered by Anonymous
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Santa was (in Europe) St. Nickolas. He would secretly leave gifts for the needy. The modern version is an American invention.
2007-12-24 04:15:55
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answer #4
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answered by Rev. Kaldea 5
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He is seriously imaginary. The product of a heathen religion. Even "Saint Nicholas" on whom he might be based is anachronistic. There were no believers (let alone saints) in that country at that time.
2007-12-24 04:08:12
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answer #5
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answered by hasse_john 7
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He was a real man, according to Dutch folklore. His name was Sinterklaas, and he put candies in childrens' shoes. Americans picked up the legend, and made it into what it is now.
2007-12-24 04:09:20
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answer #6
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answered by catalyst 4
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a real genuine imaginary character
2007-12-24 04:07:30
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answer #7
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answered by Anonymous
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Santa is not real.Just someone who is made up.Christmas
is about Jesus and Jesus only.
2007-12-24 04:47:07
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answer #8
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answered by Anonymous
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me... I am santa clause
2007-12-24 04:11:10
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answer #9
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answered by gretch 5
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