Valentine's Day, also known as the Feast of Saint Valentine, is celebrated on February 14th every year. It is a day when people express their love and affection towards their partners, friends, and family members. While the day has become synonymous with gifts, chocolates, and flowers, few people know the story of the man behind the name, St. Valentine.
Who Was St. Valentine?
St. Valentine was a Christian priest who lived in the third century A.D. during the reign of Emperor Claudius II. Claudius had prohibited young men from getting married, as he believed that single men made better soldiers. However, St. Valentine continued to perform marriages in secret, defying the emperor's orders.
When Claudius discovered what St. Valentine was doing, he ordered him to be imprisoned and eventually beheaded. St. Valentine was martyred on February 14th, and it is believed that he left a note to the jailer's daughter, signing it "from your Valentine."
Why Do We Give Cards on February 14th?
The tradition of sending Valentine's Day cards dates back to the 15th century. The first Valentine's Day card is believed to have been sent by Charles, Duke of Orleans, to his wife while he was imprisoned in the Tower of London in 1415.
However, it wasn't until the 19th century that Valentine's Day cards became popular. In 1840, the first mass-produced Valentine's Day cards were created by Esther Howland, who became known as the "Mother of the American Valentine."
Today, Valentine's Day cards are a popular way to express affection to loved ones. They often feature hearts, roses, and other symbols of love and are exchanged by millions of people worldwide.
Conclusion
St. Valentine's story reminds us of the importance of love and the sacrifices that people make for it. While the tradition of giving Valentine's Day cards may have evolved over time, its message remains the same – to show those we care about that they are loved and appreciated. So, this Valentine's Day, let's take a moment to honor the legacy of St. Valentine and express our love to those who matter most.
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