The modern tradition of Santa Claus (aka Father Christmas, Saint Nicholas) is based in part on the life of a historical character. Saint Nicholas of Myra (in present-day Turkey) was born in the 4th century to wealthy parents who died when he was a child. As a young man, Nicholas dedicated his life to God, obeyed Jesus’ admonition to “sell what you have and give to the poor,”1 and used his inheritance to assist the needy and the suffering. He was eventually promoted to the office of bishop, and became known for his love and generosity.

1Matthew19:21