Valentine's Day is celebrated in the United States on
February 14th. The origins of the holiday might point back to three
martyrs; Valentine of Rome; Valentine of Terni; and St. Valentine from
Africa. Not much is known about these people other than they were each
martyred on February 14th. Some believe that Valentine of Rome and
Valentine of Terni were actually the same person. Legends exist that
connect the commemoration of these historical figures with love and
romance.
The celebration of Valentine's Day in North America with the sending of
cards has been attributed to Esther Howland of Massachusetts. She was
the daughter of a book and stationery store owner and created embossed
paper lace cards for sale. The Greeting Card Association now estimates
over a billion Valentines are sent each year, second only to Christmas
in the number of cards sent. In addition to cards, candy and jewelry are
popular sentiments.
Links
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