Each year on February 14th, Valentine’s Day, cards, chocolates and flowers are exchanged between loved ones all in the name of St. Valentine.
While this is a time-honored tradition in our culture, little is known about its origins as the history of the day is shrouded in mystery.
Based on Catholic origins, there were three original saints named Valentine. One legend suggests that Valentine was a priest who performed marriages, even after Emperor Claudius II outlawed marriage, because he believed single men were better soldiers. When Valentine’s actions were discovered, he was put to death.
Other theories suggest Valentine was imprisoned for helping Christians escape harsh Roman prison conditions. Once imprisoned, folklore indicates he fell in love with a young girl, likely the jailer’s daughter, and before his death, wrote her a letter signed by “Your Valentine” which is a expression still used today.
Valentine greetings have been used as far back as the Middle Ages, though written Valentine’s appeared in the 1400’s. Americans likely began exchanging Valentine’s in the 1700’s and with the advent of the printing press, by 1900 printed cards began to replace handwritten notes.
According to the Greeting Card Association (https://www.greetingcard.org/), an estimated one billion cards are sent each Valentine’s Day, making it the second most popular greeting card next to Christmas.
While exchanging gifts and spending time with your loved ones during time-honored holiday, it’s best to keep a few safety tips in mind:
Plan ahead.
Watch your step.
Drunk drivers.
With these safety tips in mind, you are sure to enjoy a night of romantic celebration with your Valentine this year.
If you have been involved in an accident causing injury on Valentine’s Day or any other day, be sure to contact a trusted legal professional who can assist you in evaluating your case.
Contact Hinman Law Group at (877) 462-9732 for a FREE consultation to see if we can help.
We at Hinman Law Group wish you a safe and happy Valentine’s Day!