General Studies · Passage and Conclusion

A paragraph is given below, followed by a statement. Read the paragraph carefully and determine the validity of the statement based on the information given. Saint Nicholas (or Santa Claus) lived around 300 AD in Patara in modern Turkey (at that time considered a part of ancient Greece). He was the Bishop of Myra and was popular among the poor for his good deeds, loved by children, and frequented by the needy. He wore red and golden vestments in his religious office. In traditional illustrations, he was depicted as a benevolent figure carrying a staff, a Bible, or both. In later traditions, Santa Claus was portrayed as a philanthropic saint living at the North Pole. 13th Century: Bishop Nicholas of Myra was honored with the title of Saint in the first millennium. In his honor in the 13th century, the Dutch started a tradition of collecting coins in worn-out shoes outside poor houses, inspired by the deeds of Saint Nicholas. Over time, 'Saint Nicholas' became 'Sinterklaas'. To this day, the official Sinterklaas of the Netherlands wears white clothes, a red cloak, a high miter, and appears as a bishop with long white hair and a beard, often traveling on a white horse. 16th Century: Saint Nicholas became popular throughout Europe. The Dutch Sinterklaas evolved into Santa Claus in many territories. Every year, the festival of Saint Nicholas or Santa Claus is celebrated on December 6, which is the death anniversary of the original Bishop of Myra. Statement: Saint Nicholas was considered a philanthropist.