Valentine’s Day

By Jesse

The history of the Saint Valentine has many legends. One legend was about a priest who lived in third century Rome. Emperor Claudius II decided that single men were better soldiers than married men, so he outlawed marriage from young men. When Valentine heard this, he continued to perform marriages regardless. Claudius found out what he was doing and sentenced Valentine to death.

Another legend was that Valentine sent the first Valentine card while in prison. People think it was his jailor’s daughter with whom he fell in love. Before he died he wrote a letter that said, “From your Valentine,” which is still in use today.

Valentine’s Day Facts

· Before Valentine’s day, 192 Valentine cards go out annually

· Nearly 60% of Valentine cards are bought six days before Valentine’s Day

· February 14^th traditionally is known for when birds choose their mates.

· Roman festival of Lupercalia used to be celebrated on February 15th where young men held a lottery to conclude which girl would be theirs.

· In the Middle Ages, there was a belief that the first unmarried person of the opposite sex you met on the morning of St. Valentine's Day would become your spouse.

· The first Valentine gift was sent by Duke of Orleans to his wife, after he was captured in 1415.

· In Medieval times people who couldn't write their names signed with an 'X' in front of a witness. The 'X' was then kissed to show sincerity. Many believe this is how the 'X' symbol became synonymous with the kiss.