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Santa Claus

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Submitted By angesheltn
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The Beginnings of Santa Claus The evolution of the figure known as Santa Claus can be traced through religious, mythological, and cultural portrayals all the way back to the fourth century. It is amazing how the legend of Santa Claus has grown and evolved throughout history. And even more exciting how he has became a modern day icon during the Christmas season. What do you think of when you hear the words: strings of lights, carolers, snow, cookies and milk? Most often Christmas right? More often Santa Claus. Every boy and girl has felt the joy of Christmas eve, having family time, putting out treats for Santa, and then tossing and turning unable to sleep growing evermore restless about Santa's arrival. Although most know what Santa does during his sleigh ride, many may not know where his origin began. The jolly man we know has developed through the span of time and has gone through numerous changes. "The original St Nicholas is for the most part a shadowy figure, lost in historical mist and religious myths" (Myers) Despite the fact that the idea of giving gifts developed from Saint Nicholas in the fourth century, the first characters that resemble our modern day Santa developed in the seventeenth century. We acquire these figures from the English and also the Dutch. Although this man in not the same as the modern Santa, it is evident the these are his beginnings. "When the Dutch lost control of New Amsterdam to the English in the seventeenth century, Sinterklaas gradually became anglicized into Santa Claus and acquired some of the features of the English father Christmas" (Myers). Santa Claus is a character that has been changed and modified throughout history. religion, mythology, and personal opinion have all had a significant impact on his development. However, Santa's personality and objective have generally remained the same. without a doubt Santa now

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