The Brutal, Dark History Behind Valentine’s Day

LOUISIANA (KMDL-FM) - Valentine’s Day is celebrated on February 14 as a time for couples to express love and appreciation. But have you ever wondered why this date became associated with romance? The origins of Valentine's Day actually have a dark story to tell...really dark.

Who Was Saint Valentine?

The man known as Saint Valentine lived in ancient Rome during the 3rd century AD. Historians aren’t entirely sure whether he was a priest or a bishop according to scotsman.com, but most accounts agree that he was a Christian leader who became known for performing marriage ceremonies and teaching Christian beliefs at a time when Rome was hostile to both.

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During this period, Roman Emperor Claudius II banned marriages and weddings because he believed unmarried men made better soldiers. Saint Valentine defied this order by secretly officiating Christian marriages and continuing his ministry. Obviously, Claudius II had a major with this.

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Valentine’s Arrest and Execution

According to historical references, Valentine’s persistence eventually led to his arrest. Despite reportedly performing a healing miracle for the emperor’s adopted daughter, Valentine was condemned for his actions, which defied both the emperor and the state’s anti-Christian policies.

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Valentine’s execution was violent.

From scotsman.com -

"He was beaten with clubs and stones, then beheaded outside the Flaminian Gate in Rome before being buried at a Christian cemetery on the Via Flaminia."

Saint Valentine's death is recorded as occurring on February 14, 269 AD.

More than two centuries later, in 496 AD, Pope Gelasius I declared February 14 as “The Feast of Saint Valentine.” Over time, this feast day merged with romantic traditions, eventually evolving into the modern celebration of Valentine’s Day.

You can read more about Saint Valentine and Valentine's Day over at scotsman.com and wikipedia.com.