ANSWERS: 1
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Santa Claus originated from St. Nicholas, a bishop living in Asia Minor around 325 A.D. After the Protestant Reformation in England, the figure of Father Christmas replaced St. Nicholas. Unlike the saint, Father Christmas bore no resemblance to religious clergymen, instead wearing a red or green robe and a wreath of holly or mistletoe.
Source:
Ball State University: The Origin of American Christmas Myth and Customs
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