Q: according to the history channel this is true. all i know about him is that he was a journalist for harper's weekly from history class.
A: Yes, according to art historians, Mr. Nast put Santa in his boots and familiar uniform. Keep in mind that Clement Moore wrote the poem, "A Visit from St. Nicholas," which was illustrated by Thomas Nast and immortalized and loved in book form. Mr. Nast was an illustrator for newspapers and periodicals and even drew Santa Claus greeting the Union Army troops during the Civil War, wearing his boots, belt, matching trousers and coat as we know him. As time went on, the wonderful artists from Coca- cola marketed Coke as a year-round drink and adopted Santa as their marketing idol. Other companies, such as White Rock beverages and Macy*s took on Santa as their own marketing avatar. (I believe White Rock was before Coca-Cola). Be that as it may, artists influence our lives in an amazing way. Normal Rockwell also did some great Santa work. It is true- feel free to email me.