If you happen to have an unromantic boyfriend or husband who happens to believe that Valentines Day was entirely made up by the greeting card industry to create revenue every February 14th, tell him to think again! Yes, I am married to a man who considers Valentines Day a “Hallmark holiday” too, so you are not alone. Here a few facts about the history behind Valentines Day to share with your guy.
Valentines Days can actually be traced back to the days of the ancient Roman Empire. Back when Emperor Claudius III reigned, he found it difficult to recruit soldiers to join the Roman army. Claudius blamed his lack of soldiers on the fact that many men did not want to leave their wives, children, or fiance behind. (Most likely it was due to the fact that Rome was involved in some unsavory military activities at the time.) Therefore, Claudius took it upon himself to cancel all marriages and engagements in Rome, which might free up the men to become recruits for his army.
A priest named St. Valentine (actually named a saint after his death) thought this action was unjust, and took it upon himself to secretly marry couples until his defiance of Emperor Claudius III was discovered. After being found out, Valentine was then put to death on February 14, 270 A.D. Because of Valentine’s personal sacrifice to keep love alive, he became known as the patron saint of lovers .As time passed, the traditions of giving love notes and simple gifts began, similar to those kept today. Today, Valentines Day traditions have spread across seven continents.
So there you have it. St. Valentine risked his life, and ultimately lost it, trying to go against authority to keep lovers together. Share this romantic little story with your guy, and maybe, just maybe, he will be so deeply moved that he will become the romantic you’ve been waiting for. Then again, maybe not! Whatever happens, just be sure to have a Happy Valentines Day.