9. Was Saint Nick Really That Nice?
Santa Claus is a product of inputs from various cultures. The biggest single figure behind Santa is probably Saint Nicholas of Myra, also known as Nicholas of Bari (270 – 342 AD). A popular minor saint in both the Western and Eastern churches, he was a generous man known for his gifts. He became associated with Christmas, and the tradition of gifts given that day. Nicholas was born into a rich family, and he used his wealth to help those in need. He traveled around, and went on pilgrimage to the Holy Lands. Along the way, he became associated with various good deeds, such as saving three innocent soldiers from wrongful execution.
Legend also attributed to Nicholas numerous miracles. He reportedly chopped down a demonic tree, calmed down the sea, and resurrected three kids who had been murdered by a butcher and pickled in brine for sale as pork during a famine. No wonder he became the patron saint of children. So Saint Nick was a good guy, and a worthy foundational figure upon whom to build the legend of the lovable and kindly Santa. However, Nicholas was not nice all the time. As seen below, he had a mean – and violent – streak, and at times settled debates by beating up those with whom he disagreed.
