The holiday developed further with the legend of St. Nicholas(Santa Claus). Although much of his history is unconfirmed, the man who became St. Nicholas lived in the 4th century and is believed to have been a bishop in Asia Minor. Many miracles attributed to him are dubious at best. Nevertheless, some countries named him their patron saint. He also is considered the patron saint of, among others, children(for protecting them), sailors(whom he reputedly saved at sea), and the poor(to whom he generously gave gifts)