A History of Valentine’s Day

by Axel Cannon

The spirit of valentines is in the air. For centuries, on February 14th, many loved ones get together to share memories, flowers, gifts, and most importantly chocolates. Although the tradition began during the Roman empire, it has lasted until this day with minor alterations, but many people are not aware of its complicated history. Valentine’s Day is debated to be in existence for two reasons: to commemorate the life of Saint Valentine and continue the roman festival celebrating Lupercalia.

Many students are taught the story of Saint Valentine in their early school years around the special day; however, this knowledge is not quick to last. As the story goes, Valentine was a priest who served during the third century in Rome under Emperor Claudius II. During his rule, he declared that all soldiers of the Roman Empire be unmarried, but this sparked outrage with this injustice. Valentine disobeyed this decree and began marrying young lovers in se- cret. After being discovered, he was sentenced to death. While the actions conducted are harsh and unjust, they may be to thank for Valentine’s Day, or not.

There is a second story relating to Saint Valentine that may be true. While Claudius II was emperor, Valentine would help Christians escape the inevitable torture in Roman prisons. Over the course of several escapes, he found himself falling in love with the jailor’s daughter to whom he sent the first valentine. Once again, he was later sentenced to death.

As everyone is aware, the Roman people were very amorous. One example of Romans celebrating their