santa claus, also known as saint nicholas, father christmas, kris kringle, or simply "santa", is a historical, legendary, and mythical figure in folklore who, in western cultures, is described as bringing gifts on christmas eve or christmas day,or on his feast day, december 6.the legend may have its basis in hagiographical tales concerning the historical figure of saint nicholas.
the modern depiction of santa claus as a fat, jolly man (or elf) wearing a red coat and trousers with white cuffs and collar, and black leather belt and boots, became popular in the united states in the 19th century due to the significant influence of caricaturist and political cartoonist thomas nast.this image has been maintained and reinforced through song, radio, television, and films. in the united kingdom and europe, his depiction is often identical to the american santa, but he is commonly called father christmas.
