The Origin of Santa Claus

Violet Bennion ’27

The Holiday season is approaching, bringing with it the iconic image of Santa. For many children, the holiday season is one they look forward to every year, a time when everything feels magical. It’s the season with elves, Rudolph, and Santa. But where did Santa Claus even come from? It turns out that the myth of Santa Claus actually dates all the way back to the 3rd century. A man named Saint Nicolas was believed to have been born sometime around A.D. 280 in what is now modern day Turkey. He came from a wealthy Christian family and was admired by many for his kindness and generosity. According to legend, Saint Nicolas had learned of three girls who needed money for their dowries. During three separate nights, he tossed gold coins into their stockings hanging by the fire, providing their dowries. This prompted the tradition of leaving stockings out for Saint Nicolas to fill, a story that eventually morphed the Santa Claus that so many children eagerly await on Christmas Eve.

We know, of course, that Santa Claus is not real. It is basic common knowledge that there is no such thing as a man who carries a bag of presents on a flying sleigh pulled by reindeer. However, parents intentionally tell their kids that such things do exist. Is this ethically right or wrong? Many people have argued about whether kids should be “lied to” about the existence of Santa Claus. I understand both arguments. Part of what makes Christmas so special for children is the magic that revolves around it.

But at what point does Christmas become less magical? For a child, the excitement that is felt comes from the anticipation of gifts. However, as someone grows older, receiving gifts may feel less thrilling. It becomes less about what you are receiving, and more about what you are giving. It can be hard to feel the same joy about the holiday season that was felt as a child.

Obviously, not everyone celebrates Christmas, but giving back to the community in some shape or form can bring just as much joy as receiving gifts. Watching a child experience the holiday season rekindles cherished childhood memories. In the end, whether someone celebrates Christmas or another tradition, the spirit of the season can still be shared.