18. The Ancient OG Santa
The gift-giving Saint Nick, or Santa Claus, is a product of inputs from the folklore of various cultures. The biggest single figure behind Santa is probably Saint Nicholas of Myra, also known as Nicholas of Bari (270 – 342 AD). A popular saint of both the Western and Eastern churches, he was a generous man known for his gifts. He became associated with Christmas, and the tradition of gifts given that day. Nicholas was born into wealth, and used his riches to help those less fortunate. He traveled around, and went on pilgrimage to the Holy Lands. He also became associated with various good deeds, such as saving three innocent soldiers from wrongful execution.
Legend also attributed to him numerous miracles. He reportedly calmed the sea, chopped down a demonic tree, and resurrected three kids who had been murdered by a butcher and pickled in brine for sale as pork amidst a famine. No wonder he became the patron saint of children. Saint Nick was thus a good guy, and a worthy foundational figure upon whom to build the legend of the lovable Santa. However, Nicholas was not nice all the time. As seen below, if he disagreed with you, Saint Nick might beat you up to settle the debate.