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Evolution of Santa Claus from St Nicholas to Moore and Nast
The article traces Santa’s origins from St Nicholas of Myra through Dutch and English Yule customs, noting Jan Duyckinck’s influence on Moore and the 1823 poem A Visit from St. Nicholas. It credits Nast for popularizing the modern image, and explains the blend of Father Christmas and St. Nicholas traditions, including the eight reindeer names.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Santa Claus
Nicholas
Myra
Lycia
Russia
Gyure Santa
Jan Duyckinck
Netherlands
Duyckinck
Clement Clarke Moore
Moore
General Theological Seminary
New York
Hudson Valley
St. Nicholas
New Netherland
France
Britain
Clovis
Ethelbert
England
America
Father Christmas
Sinterklaag
Thomas Nast
L. H. Robbins
Nast
Pete Noel
Kriss Kringle
Nast’s
Jan
Prof. Moore