Common legend is that he is the patron saint of Ireland who banished the snakes from Ireland:

http://www.dltk-holidays.com/patrick/about.htm
"Another tale about Patrick is that he drove the snakes from Ireland. Different versions of the story, tell of him standing upon a hill, using a wooden staff to drive the serpents into the sea, banishing them forever from Ireland. "

However, these myths have been proven false in recent times. And it is thought to be a metaphore for drive out the pagans. He was a christian priest who started well over 300 churches in Ireland and was one of those responsible for bringing the new religion to those of the island. He adapted many christian celebrations with those of the native pagan people to make the transition easier and more tempting to them. Here is some more information on that aspect.
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/29730222/
http://www.history.com/content/stpatricksday/who-was-st.-patrick

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