Many countries around the world celebrate Valentine’s day by gifting flowers and chocolates to their significant others, family members, or friends. However, do you know the real story behind this day? Many celebrate Valentine’s day without knowing its history.
The significance of February 14 dates back to Roman times, when Claudius II was the Roman emperor. At that time, Rome had many wars to fight and the emperor had a realization that young men who weren’t in relationships made better soldiers. As a result of his realization, Claudius II banned marriage across the country. He had forgotten that these young men still had families with whom they would wish to reunite.
At the time, Saint Valentine was a bishop and thought the banning of marriages was unfair. Valentine went on to marry couples secretly until he was caught. As a result, Claudius II decided to execute Saint Valentine on February 14.
At first, people began to celebrate February 14 by having feasts in honor of Saint Valentine. Very soon this day changed directions and became a worldwide noted day where couples express their love for one another.
For those who don’t have significant others, anyone can show their love and appreciation for a family member or friend and spread the love of the day.
