Saint Nicholas, a fourth-century Bishop of Myra, was known for his kindness and generosity, particularly towards the poor and children. As a Christian saint, he became a figure of devotion and inspiration. His legacy as a gift-giver began in Europe, where people celebrated him by placing nuts, apples, and sweets in shoes left out on St. Nicholas Day, December 6.
Early Influences in the New World
When Europeans arrived in the Americas, they brought the traditions of St. Nicholas with them. For example, Christopher Columbus named a Haitian port after him on December 6, 1492, and Spaniards established St. Nicholas Ferry in Florida. However, during the Protestant Reformation, saints like Nicholas fell out of favor, and their customs were suppressed, especially by Puritans in England and early American colonies.
Despite this, St. Nicholas’ image survived in parts of Europe. German immigrants to Pennsylvania continued to celebrate his feast, and Dutch influences in New York associated him with gift-giving. Over time, these traditions blended with local customs, particularly during the colonial and revolutionary periods.
Reinvention in America
After the American Revolution, New Yorkers embraced their Dutch heritage, and figures like John Pintard and Washington Irving played key roles in popularizing St. Nicholas. Irving’s satirical work in 1809 depicted him as a jolly Dutch figure who brought gifts down chimneys. This marked a shift from the saintly bishop to a more whimsical character.
The transformation continued with the 1821 publication of The Children’s Friend, which introduced “Sante Claus” arriving in a sleigh with a flying reindeer, rewarding good children and punishing the naughty. Two years later, Clement Clarke Moore’s famous poem A Visit from St. Nicholas (commonly known as The Night Before Christmas) further solidified this image. The poem described a cheerful, plump, and fur-clad figure bringing joy to families on Christmas Eve.
Cultural Shifts and Artistic Influence
In the mid-19th century, artists like Thomas Nast further shaped Santa Claus into the jolly, rotund figure we recognize today. Nast’s illustrations during the Civil War depicted Santa as a Union supporter, boosting morale among soldiers. By the late 1800s, Santa’s red suit, flowing beard, and association with gift-giving were firmly established.
Commercialization of Santa Claus
The 20th century saw Santa Claus become a symbol of commercialism. Haddon Sundblom’s Coca-Cola advertisements from 1931 to 1966 standardized the red-suited, life-sized Santa, promoting him as a figure of holiday cheer and consumer culture. By the 1950s, Santa was ubiquitous in advertising, representing a wide array of products.
Returning to Saint Nicholas’ Roots
Despite the commercialization, there is renewed interest in reclaiming the original Saint Nicholas. As a model of generosity and faith, he inspires families, churches, and schools to focus on the spiritual essence of Christmas—the birth of Jesus Christ. By remembering the true St. Nicholas, communities hope to balance materialism with the values of kindness and devotion.
Saint Nicholas’ journey from a revered bishop to a global symbol of holiday cheer is a testament to the enduring power of tradition and storytelling. Though his image has changed, the spirit of generosity he represents continues to inspire people worldwide.
-Phan Trần Hương-