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A leprechaun is an Irish faerie creature, usually depicted as a little old man, about two-feet tall, with a green coat and usually a leather apron. They are said to be rich creatures, known to keep their wealth in a pot of gold.
These mythological creatures are portrayed in the form of old cantankerous shoemakers who enjoy their cunning and mischief, but who can be made to reveal the location of their treasure by capturing and keeping one's eyes upon them (else they escape) and threatening them with bodily harm.
They are associated with Irish peoples who lived in Ireland before the Celts, who are said to have talked about their adventures with the little creatures as a normal occurrence, not as anything out of the ordinary.
In today's world, the popularized image of leprechauns found in media advertising and movies are said by many Irish to be nothing but offensive stereotypes of their culture; the Lucky Charms mascot often pointed out as an egregious example.
In most ancient tales which have existed until today, leprechauns are depicted as mostly harmless creatures who enjoy their freedom and solitude, as well as the occasional prank.
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