The best known of these figures today is red-dressed Santa Claus, of diverse origins. The name Santa Claus can be traced back to the DutchSinterklaas, which means simply Saint Nicholas. Nicholas was Bishop of Myra, in modern day Turkey, during the 4th century. Among other saintly attributes, he was noted for the care of children, generosity, and the giving of gifts. His feast on December 6 came to be celebrated in many countries with the giving of gifts