A Brief History Of Valentine's Day

History of Valentine’s Day (February 14) • Valentine’s Day occurs every February 14. • Across the United States and in other places around the world, candy, flowers and gifts are exchanged between loved ones, all in the name of St. Valentine. • But who is this mysterious saint and where did these traditions come from? Find out about the history of Valentine’s Day, from the ancient Roman ritual of Lupercalia. The Legend of St. Valentine • The history of Valentine’s Day–and the story of its patron saint–is closed in mystery. • We know that February has long been celebrated as a month of romance, and that St. Valentine’s Day, as we know it today, contains vestiges of both Christian and ancient Roman tradition. • But who was Saint Valentine, and how did he become associated with this ancient rite? • One legend contends that Valentine was a priest who served during the third century in Rome. • When Emperor Claudius II decided that single men made better soldiers than those with wives and families, he outlawed marriage for young men. • Valentine, realizing the injustice of the decree, defied Claudius and continued to perform marriages for young lovers in secret. • When Valentine’s actions were discovered, Claudius ordered that he be put to death. • Still others insist that it was Saint Valentine of Terni, a bishop, who was the true namesake of the holiday. • Other stories suggest that Valentine may have been killed for attempting to help Christians escape harsh Roman...