Biography (A & E Home Video (Firm))

Documentary

His roots are firmly planted in religious ground, yet he has become a symbol of the secular side of the Christmas celebration. Despite the commercialization, he remains a symbol of what is worthwhile about the holiday season: generosity, kindness and good will to men. Santa Claus has enjoyed a long and fruitful history, though perhaps not as long a one as some might imagine. Though the name of "St. A Claus" appears in print in America as early as 1773, he took familiar and lasting form with the publication of 'The Night Before Christmas' in 1823. From his origins in 4th-century Turkey to modern big-screen incarnations, follow the tracks of "eight tiny reindeer" deep into the heart of this beloved icon. Track his many incarnations and ongoing evolution, and see how the jolly gift-giver has been embraced by people and cultures the world over

Originally broadcast on the A&E Television Network in 2003

Editors, Mary Perica and Dave Marcus

Narrator, Alan J. Schwartz

MPAA rating: Not rated

DVD, region 1, full screen (1.33:1) presentation; Dolby Digital stereo