A familiar symbol of Christmas in Europe and North America, Santa Claus is usually pictured as a jolly old man in a red suit who brings gifts to good children. The tradition of Santa Claus is based on a historical figure named St. Nicholas. Nicholas of Bari, the bishop of Myra in Asia Minor (present-day Turkey) in the A.D. 300s, was known for his kindness and generosity. Tales of miracles he performed for the poor and unfortunate grew up around his name. In one story, he provided dowriesmoney, goods, or property that a woman brings to her husband at marriage for poor girls who otherwise would not have married.

St. Nicholas became very popular in Europe during the Middle Ages and was adopted as the patronspecial guardian, protector, or supporter saint of Russia. Dutch settlers in America brought his legend...