The History of Valentine's Day...
Every February, across the country, candy, flowers, and gifts are exchanged between loved ones, all in the name of St. Valentine. But what is this mysterious day - where did we get the name and why do we celebrate this holiday?
The history of Valentine's Day -- and its patron saint -- is shrouded in mystery. But we do know that February has long been a month of romance. St. Valentine's Day, as we know it today, contains vestiges of both Christian and ancient Roman tradition. So, who was Saint Valentine and how did he become associated with this ancient rite? Today, the Catholic Church recognizes at least three different saints named Valentine or Valentinus, all of whom were martyred. Vist the History Channel to read more.
Interesting Facts about Valentine's Day...
According to the Greeting Card Association, an estimated one billion valentine cards are sent each year, making Valentine's Day the second largest card-sending holiday of the year. (An estimated 2.6 billion cards are sent for Christmas.)
Approximately 85 percent of all valentines are purchased by women. In addition to the United States, Valentine's Day is celebrated in Canada, Mexico, the United Kingdom, France, and Australia.
Valentine greetings were popular as far back as the Middle Ages (written Valentine's didn't begin to appear until after 1400), and the oldest known Valentine card is on display at the British Museum. The first commercial Valentine's Day greeting cards produced in the U.S. were created in the 1840s by Esther A. Howland. Howland, known as the Mother of the Valentine, made elaborate creations with real lace, ribbons and colorful pictures known as "scrap". (information provided by American Greetings)
And one last thing... Vist my friend K-SraSra's site for sweet Valentine's Day Poem.
5 comments:
I don't know what's funnier; that all of the Valentines were murdered or that it's pretty much just women buying Valentines! Both of those facts are a little sad. Do you think women are more romantically inclined to love notes than men? Do women need more affirmation and therefore are more prone to buy it for others?
Good find, honestus. My boyfriend would like this post. He was wondering about the origin of Valentine's Day. I'll have to forward it to him...
Yes, Yes and Yes.
Women are more sensitive, aware of such loveness things and romantically-minded then most men i'd say. Perhaps its because men often tend to not share their feelings. It's just not brawny and manly to do so.
Also coming to mind... Men don't want to be told they need to buy their girlfriend something because of a holiday, such as Valentine's Day. I for instance, would rather surprise my girlfriend and shower her with gifts other times of the year where it is least expected, than succumb to the hype.
All that being said, i bought my girlfriend chocolates and other sweet things, just to be safe. =p
Oh! so you do have a girlfriend! you've been holding out on us. I should run back to my blog and make the announcement right away!
sorry K-Sra, but yes, i have a girlfriend, or should i say, (deepens voice) "i have a lady".
She is quite wonderful.
Don't apologize to me. I wasn't trying to steal you away! I am very glad to hear it. And be sure to check out my blog subtitle! Hehehe.
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