Christmas and Santa

Christmas and Santa

Countries like the United States, Mexico, Spain, Italy, and Germany tend to have a strong Christmas tradition, each with their own unique customs, decorations, and celebrations during this time of year. The figure of Santa Claus has its roots in various traditions and legends. It is based on Saint Nicholas, a 4th century bishop known for his generosity and love of children. The transformation into Santa Claus became popular in North America, where European traditions mixed with local stories and the influence of the poem “A Visit from Saint Nicholas” (better known as “Twas the Night Before Christmas”) and the illustrations of

Thomas Nast in the 19th century, creating the iconic image we know today. Thomas Nast was a 19th-century American cartoonist and illustrator, recognized for his contributions to politics and popular culture. He is especially famous for his striking creation of the modern image of Santa Claus. In 1863, he drew a series of illustrations for Harper’s Weekly newspaper that featured a fat, jolly Santa Claus in a red and white suit, creating an iconic image that endures to this day. Nast also contributed significantly to the representation of other cultural and political symbols in his cartoons.