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(NewsNation) — Now that Thanksgiving is over, many Americans are preparing to celebrate Christmas under a myriad of traditions that span cultures. One of those traditions is putting out shoes on December 6 to collect candy from St. Nick. But who is he?

According to Christian tradition, St. Nicholas was a 4th-century Greek bishop of Myra known for his generosity, particularly towards children, the poor and sailors. Born in modern-day Turkey, he is the historical figure who inspired the legend of Santa Claus and is known for secretly giving gifts to the needy, a practice that gave rise to the tradition of hanging up stockings or leaving gifts in shoes. 

His feast day is December 6, the anniversary of his death, and many Christian children still observe the tradition of putting their shoes out so as to receive goodies from St. Nick by morning. 

The legend of St. Nicholas, particularly his generosity and gift-giving, evolved over centuries and across cultures, influencing figures like the Dutch Sinterklaas and Father Christmas and eventually the American Santa Claus.