
Cupid’s Countdown
Just how does Valentine’s Day add up?
- CategoryUncategorized
3rd century
Legendary priest named Valentine defied Emperor Claudius II’s order
not to marry young couples because single men made better soldiers …
he was put to death
15
The ides of February and observed date of the pagan celebration of Lupercalia, a fertility festival—it’s believed the event was “Christianized” in the 5th century
85% (approximately)
Valentines that are purchased by women
1415
Oldest known valentine still in existence today … a poem written in 1415 by Charles, Duke of Orleans, to his wife while he was imprisoned in the Tower of London following his capture at
the Battle of Agincourt
17th century
Valentine’s Day picks up popularity in Great Britain
3
Number of saints named “Valentine” who were martyred and recognized by the Roman Catholic Church
14
During the Middle Ages, this was believed to be the day in February that bird mating season began,thus a day for romance
1840s
“Mother of Valentine’s Day” Esther A. Howland begins selling the first mass-produced valentines in America
1 billion
Valentine’s Day cards exchanged annually*, making it the second most popular card-sending holiday after Christmas
$147
average per person Valentine’s spending in 2016**
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