By Tristin Marshall
Valentine’s day, aka the-most-important-holiday-for-a-girl-second-to-her-birthday, is a very special day for those in love all across the world. Beginning in childhood, children are taught to show affection to those who they love; don’t you miss the card and candy combination that you used to get from all your classmates? Sigh.
Well, have you ever wondered how such a lovely holiday came about? Of course not, all that matters are the roses and the candy. But seriously, the origin of Valentine’s Day has a very interesting history that is worth knowing.
According to history.com, Valentine’s Day dates back to the Roman fertility festival, Lupercalia. There was an animal sacrifice at this festival, then the women were whipped with the animal’s skin. Sounds kinky, right?
Valentine’s Day was officially set for February 14 by Pope Gelasius in the fifth century to honor St. Valentine. The Catholic Church meant for this day to be a Christian feast day, however, in the 1300s the holiday was designated as one for love. Now that’s more like it!
History.com revealed that one billion Valentine cards are sent each year, and 220 million roses are produced. It also states that 20 percent of Americans buy jewelry for their significant other. So, ladies tell your man there’s no excuse. Studies also show that on average, six million couples are likely to get engaged on this day.
Knowing these few facts about Valentine’s Day can give you and your honey something to talk about over dinner. For those of you that do not have a sweet Valentine this year, no worries, show others your love and affection by sending them small gifts, and tell them all that you know about the history of Valentine’s Day.
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