Popular Versions Of Valentine’s Day’s History

Valentines Day is a traditional day celebrated throughout the world, which has its origins in the West. Also known as St Valentines Day, on this day lovers express their feeling towards each other by exchanging Valentines Day cards accompanied by gifts such as flowers and candies. Though the exact origin and history of Valentines Day is still shrouded in mystery, one thing is sure that the day is named after Christian martyrs Valentine. Till 1969, Catholic Church used to recognize eleven Valentine’s Days, however, the Church now identifies only February 14 as Valentines Day after Valentine of Rome and Valentine of Terni.

The most popular version of Valentines Day history has its roots in Rome. According to a legend, Emperor Claudius II, who at that time used to rule Rome was of the opinion that single men made better solders. Hence he issued a diktat forbidding young men to get married. Valentine went against him and continued to secretly perform marriages of young lovers. When the emperor found it out, he executed him on February 14, 270 AD.

Another version of Valentine’s Day’s history also takes us back to Rome; however, this legend has cultural differences angel embedded in it. The legend states that Valentine of Terni, who used to work for Emperor Aurelian, helped Sabino and Serapia to get married. While Sabino was a Roman solder, Serapia was a Christian girl. This upset the Emperor, who was of the opinion that a pagan a Christian should not be married. Finally, Valentine of Terni was executed on 14, AD 197. Bodies of Sabino and Serapia were later found in a single sarcophagus. Thus February 14 is celebrate as Valentines Day in remembrance of Valentine of Terni and the two lovers, who chose to dies instead of living in separation. Though there are numerous other versions, these two legends fit the bill of Valentine’s Day’s history perfectly.

Why Cards Are Exchanged On Valentines Day

On the eve of his execution, Valentine of Rome sent a note to jailors daughter expressing his love for her. The note read “from your Valentine” and this is how the cards exchanged on Valentines Day derived their name. It is also the reason why cards are exchanged on this day.

Handwritten notes or printed cards may have been the choice earlier, but today, Valentine Day e-cards are choice of millions. The way Valentines Day e-cards can be customized and animated, other types cannot be. After all, reasons may be different, but feelings remain the same.

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