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February 14th is Valentine’s Day… a day when people show their affection for another by sending anonymous cards, flowers, or chocolates. 

But do you have any idea as to why we celebrate it?  Let me tell you:

The history of this holiday can be traced back to the Catholic Church, in honour of St. Valentine.  It is associated with romantic love since the High Middle Ages when the concept of romantic love was formulated. 

Nowadays, it is more commonly associated with the exchange of a love note known as a “valentine”.  Since the 19th century, exchanging a hand-written note has become common practice and has led to the greeting card.  And according to The Greeting Card Association, approximately 1 billion valentines are sent each year, worldwide. 

Valentine’s Day was imported to North America in the 19th century with the settlers from Britain.  During the 2nd half of the 20th century, the practice of exchanging cards incorporated the giving of gifts, usually from a man to a woman.  The gifts were the now familiar flowers and chocolates and in the 80’s, the diamond industry began advertising the holiday as an occasion for jewellery. 

And according to tradition, when Valentine’s Day falls on a leap year, women can propose marriage!