Slaps, Saints, and Secrets: How Valentine’s Day Actually Began

yummy!

Before it was a day of romance, mid-February was a time of  much messier traditions. Ancient Romans celebrated Lupercalia from February 13 to 15.

Instead of exchanging cards, Roman priests (the Luperci) would sacrifice goats and dogs, then use strips of the hides to slap women and crop fields. Believe it or not, women welcomed this, as it was thought to provide fertility for the coming year. It wasn't exactly "candlelit dinner" vibes, but it was the hottest ticket in Rome.

The Catholic Church recognizes at least three different saints named Valentine or Valentinus, all of whom were martyred. The most popular legends of the history of Valentine's day include:

• The Secret Wedding Officiant: During the reign of Emperor Claudius II, young men were banned from marrying because the Emperor believed single men made better soldiers. Legend says Valentine defied the decree and performed marriages in secret.

• The First Valentine’s Note: Another story suggests Valentine was imprisoned for helping Christians. While in jail, he allegedly fell in love with the jailer's daughter and sent her a letter signed "From your Valentine"—a phrase we still use 2,000 years later.

By the end of the 5th century, Pope Gelasius I declared February 14th St. Valentine's Day, effectively replacing the "pagan" Lupercalia with a more "Christian" celebration.

For centuries, Valentine’s Day was just another day on the saint’s calendar. It didn't become synonymous with "love" until the Middle Ages.

• Chaucer’s Influence: In 1382, poet Geoffrey Chaucer wrote Parlement of Foules, linking the feast of St. Valentine with the mating season of birds.

• The Oldest Extant Valentine: The earliest known written valentine was a poem written in 1415 by Charles, Duke of Orleans, to his wife while he was imprisoned in the Tower of London.

Ouch! People were mean!

The Industrial Revolution changed everything. By the mid-19th century, "Vinegar Valentines" (insulting cards) were actually popular, but they were soon overtaken by the mass-produced lace and paper cards we recognize today.

Fun Fact: Today, an estimated 145 million Valentine’s Day cards are exchanged annually (not including classroom valentines!), making it the second-largest card-sending holiday after Christmas.

Whether you’re celebrating "Galentine’s Day" with friends, a romantic evening with a partner, or just buying half-priced candy on February 15th, you’re part of a tradition that has evolved over two millennia from a rugged Roman ritual to a global celebration of affection.