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What Is The History Of Valentines And How It’s Celebrated

Originally published February 9, 2013  ·  Updated January 30, 2024
What Is The History Of Valentines And How It’s Celebrated

Every February 14, almost everyone worldwide celebrates Valentine’s Day.

They celebrate it by giving chocolate, flowers, or greeting cards to people they love.

But, the origin of the day is complicated to find. Nevertheless, there’s one popular story based on Bishop Valentine and his efforts to unite couples in marriage.

Here’s the video for you:

UPDATE: This video is now being featured on Mashable

Versions of Valentine’s Day History

There are at least three known martyrs with the name Saint Valentine. One was a priest in Rome, the second a bishop of Interamna, and the third another martyr who suffered in Africa. Strangely enough, all three received their martyrdom on February 14th.

Other than these Valentines, The Roman Martyrology lists another seven who died at different times of the year. Next, another four whose death date is unrecorded. In short, there were actually eleven other Saint Valentines.

The most prevalent version occurred at the end of the Roman Empire’s golden era. At the time, Claudius II had banned marriage for young people because he thought it would make them too attached to their families. It was reducing their ability to perform as soldiers.

As a bishop, Valentine was silently against this rule. He secretly performed marriages between lovers that came to him. However, it didn’t last long. The Roman Empire heard about his secret marriage ceremonies. And sadly, Valentine was thrown in jail.

Valentine was also known for his ability to heal people. While he was in prison, Asterius – his jailer – asked him to heal his blind daughter. Valentine was successful and ended up forming a deep friendship with her.

Claudius II finally executed Valentine and put him to death. Before his death, Valentine asked for a pen and paper; he wrote a letter to Asterius’ daughter, “from your Valentine.”

These notorious words finally remain forever, celebrated by young people worldwide.

Another Version of Valentine

In another version, Valentine’s Day started in Ancient Rome. To honor Juno, Valentine celebrates the Goddess of Women and Marriage. The Ancient Romans also held the Lupercalia festival the day after.

At the time, young boys and girls were strictly separate; Lupercalia was a festival that would draw them together. They put Roman girls’ names in a jar, and the boys would each take turns to pick one out. Whoever they chose would become their partner for the duration of the festival.

Which version do you love more? I think the first version makes sense if we celebrate Valentine’s Day as a representation of love. So, are you ready for Valentine’s? Prepare yourself and show love to the people you care about. Happy Valentine’s Day!

We believe the first version sounds much more dramatic and represents Valentine’s Day as a day when lovers share their affection.

 

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