Origin of Valentine's Day

Although there have been several Valentines over the ages, the Valentine linked to love dates back to the Roman Empire. Emperor Claudius II forbid young men to be married because he did not think married men made good soldiers in his army.  However a Roman Priest named Valentine was against this law and secretly performed marriages for the Roman soldiers who wished to be married.  Claudius found out about this and had him arrested and thrown in jail. It is alleged that he performed a miracle while in
jail by healing the blind daughter of the jailer.  On the eve of his execution, Valentine wrote a note to the jailer's daughter who he was in love with, signed "From your Valentine".

 

Pictorial of St. Valentine

The Roman Catholics celebrated Saint Valentine by feasting on February 14th, the anniversary of when he was buried.  This feast is still observed in Malta where it is believed relics of the saint are
located.

During the late middle ages, Saint Valentine's Day became associated with romantic love.  Over time images such as hearts, cupids, etc. became associated with "Valentines Day". To this day "Valentines" are exchanged between companions who are intimately related.

Related articles:

Christmas, The 12 Days of Christmas, and Santa Claus
The Origin and History of Halloween
The Origin of St. Patrick's Day 
The Origin of Thanksgiving