by A builder in Zurich asks why Santa was invented, what a landlocked country is, and how Swiss direct democracy works
A Letter to Santa from Zurich, Switzerland
Dear Santa,
Gruezi Santa! My name is Noah and I am 9 years old. I live in Zurich, in Switzerland, a tidy country of snowy mountains, deep lakes, and very good chocolate. I love hiking and building with blocks. My question is: why was Santa Claus invented in the first place? My geography question is: what is a landlocked country? And my social studies question is: why do Swiss people vote directly on so many decisions? Merci, Santa!
Love, Noah (age 9)
Santa’s Reply
Ho ho ho, gruezi Noah! A careful builder in the land of chocolate asks a clever question. I was not invented to sell things or to fool anyone. The idea of me grew because people wanted a joyful way to celebrate giving and generosity. The story of kind Saint Nicholas, who gave secret gifts, reminded everyone how good it feels to give without expecting anything in return. Over the years, that warm spirit took the cheerful, round shape you know as me. In short, I exist to remind the whole world to be kind to one another.
Your geography question: a landlocked country
A landlocked country is one with no coastline at all, completely surrounded by other countries, with no border touching the open sea. Your own Switzerland is landlocked, ringed by mountains and neighbors. Landlocked countries reach the sea by traveling through their neighbors, often using rivers, roads, and railways. Read more at National Geographic Kids.
Your social studies question: voting directly
Your own Switzerland is famous for a system called direct democracy, where ordinary people vote not just for leaders but on the actual decisions and laws themselves. Several times a year, Swiss citizens cast votes on important questions. It is a way of making sure that the people, not just a few leaders, have a real say in how their country is run. Explore more at Britannica Kids.
Build something grand for me, Noah. Yours warmly from the North Pole, Santa Claus.
