Valentines Day is just around the corner, and many people celebrate the holiday by showering their significant other with candies, cards, and flowers. What many people do not think about whilst having dinner with their loved ones, though, is just how and where these traditions formulated from. How did Valentine’s Day come about? And why give chocolates, roses, and heart-shaped cards? Many people believe that Valentine’s Day was created by businesses in order to sell their products and make extra profits. Well, the origins of this romantic holiday is a rather unexpected and violent one.

Although the exact date is unknown, Valentine’s Day was originated by the ancient Romans. From February 13th to the 15th, the Romans partook in a feast called Lupercalia, where they sacrificed a goat and a dog; they then had the women stand in a line to be beaten with the hides of both animals. The Romans also did a “matchmaking” game, where they drew the names of women out of a pile and spent the duration of the festivities with whoever was chosen. The Romans also might have contributed to the naming of Valentine’s Day, Emperor Claudius II executed two men on Feb. 14th of two different years around the 3rd century; both men were named Valentine. Their martyrdom was supposedly honored by the Catholic Church with the celebration of St. Valentine’s Day.

Over the years, Valentine’s Day became known for its love and passion rather than violence. William Shakespear was one of the writers who romanticized the holiday in their work. Many writers and poets enjoyed the concept of having a specific day dedicated to the ideas romance and grandeur; thus helping to make Valentine’s Day become the heartfelt, sweet day that we know currently. Another poet of the 18th century, Geoffery Chaucer, wrote many stories telling of gift giving and romantic endeavors. Today, many people give gifts of chocolates or cards to people they care for, which many stores use to their advantage in order to gain profits on certain items.

Bloody origin stories aside, Valentine’s Day is a day that you should spend with people you care about; give and receive cards and treat yourselves to dinner. While this romantic holiday is annual, you should still try to make it as nice and relaxing as you can, and continue to remember just how this frothy, extravagant couples day came to be; as well as how far Valentine’s Day has changed into a day filled with love as it is today.