The Many Faces of Santa
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Words: 446 Copyright: 2005 Marilyn Pokorney
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Santa Claus actually started out as a version of Poseidon, Greek
god of the sea, known as Neptune by the Romans. Early Greek
sailors feared him. He could bring terrible storms in the sea,
or grant them safe journeys. Because he could save them from the
angry waters, he because known as "giver of all good things".
The Romans and Greeks held a festival on December 6 in his honor.
Many countries still celebrate Christmas on December 6 but due
to the rise of Christianity, the day was changed to St. Nicholas
Day in honor of an Asian bishop. Nicholas of Myra was a
benevolent bishop who wore red clothing, rode a white horse who
could fly, and delivered gifts anonymously.
In America, we celebrate with Santa and his flying reindeer.
But many countries still celebrate with their own unique version
of Santa.
In Sicily, it is the spirits of departed loved ones who bring
gifts to children.
Italian children wait for a kindly old witch named Befana who
flies through the air on a broom.
A Russian counterpart is known as Baboushka. Also called
Grandfather Frost in some parts of the country.
In Holland "Sintirklass" arrives by boat on December 6th.
Children leave a wooden shoe filled with hay and carrots for the
donkey which carries the pack of toys.
In Sweden a gnome called "Juletomten" brings gifts in a sleigh
driven by goats.
In Germany and Switzerland the "Christkindl", or Christ Child,
brings the gifts. In some towns, Christkindl is an angel who
comes down from heaven to give gifts.
In Australia Santa rides water skis, has a white beard, and red
bathing suit.
In China, Christmas Old Man, brings gifts to children.
In England, Father Christmas wears a longer coat and has a
longer beard.
In France he's known as Pere Noel.
All of Latin America and Spain are predominantly Catholic so
Baby Jesus, el Ni