The idea of a caring elderly man who spreads joy during Christmas was inspired by the life of Saint Nicholas, a 4th-century Christian saint. Saint Nicholas, who was a Bishop in the city of Myra in modern-day Turkey, was known for his generosity and compassion towards the poor.The idea of a caring elderly man who spreads joy during Christmas was inspired by the life of Saint Nicholas, a 4th-century Christian saint. Saint Nicholas, who was a Bishop in the city of Myra in modern-day Turkey, was known for his generosity and compassion towards the poor.