Santa Claus, St. Nick, Kris Kringle, Father Christmas; whichever name by which you know him, this Christmas staple is a jolly, white-bearded man who delivers presents on Christmas Eve. The bulk of people are unaware of the man who inspired Santa Claus and of all his positive contributions. Just who was this first Santa?

The initial Santa Claus appeared in approximately 280 A.D. as a monk named St. Nicholas. Prominently known for his generous acts of kindness toward the poor, St. Nicholas gave away his inherited wealth to children and the impoverished. The popularity he acquired earned him the admiring nickname “The Protector of Children and Sailors,” making him the most popular saint in Europe.

The American illustration of Santa Claus evolved nearing the end of the 18th century when Dutch families were highlighted in a New York newspaper. They praised a Dutchman on the anniversary of his death for his generosity and willingness to give to the needy. St. Nicholas’ Dutch nickname, Sinter Klaas, was revealed at a Historical Society meeting where woodcuts were distributed of St. Nicholas. Sinter Klaas was featured in multiple New York books which sparked Santa Claus’ figure. The fresh image attracted holiday gift shopping during the 1820s with advertisements and life-size Santa models.

St. Nicholas’ popularity back in the 3rd century has expanded and become one of the most famous staples of Christmas and the holiday season.