The modern image of Santa Claus was created in the late 1800s by American artist Thomas Nast in a series of cartoons for Harper’s Weekly magazine. It became a staple of Christmas cards and advertising images in the early 20th Century, most notably a 1930s Coca-Cola commercial, which some believe popularized his distinctive red-and-white garb.
However, the origins of this cultural icon run much deeper than that. In fact, it predates the inception of our nation, itself. I’ll share the true origin of Santa Claus and the secret history of Black Santas in America in this special episode. Please, please, please (begging like James Brown) share this episode with with your network during this holiday season.
Give the gift of Black History this holiday season!
Black History Quiz: A Word Find Puzzle Book of Black History Facts and Quotes – Throughout the book, readers are presented with clues to the identity of influential people and historic events. The answers to the quizzes are words and phrases which are hidden inside a word find puzzle. Over 250 facts are shared in this volume of word find puzzles that are sure to educate and inspire people of all ages and all over the world. After all, black history is world history.
Listen to the podcast:
Links related to this episode:
- The origins of Black Santa Claus
- History of Santa
- Sorry, America, Santa Claus Wasn’t Really White
- What Is a Dowry?
- Dowry on Wikipedia
- The Real Face of St. Nicholas
- The secret history of black Santas
- ‘Black Santa’ Helping Spread Christmas Cheer At MOA
