The story of St. Valentine is quite fascinating and has evolved over centuries. Here’s a brief overview:

Saint Valentine was a third-century Roman priest who lived during a time when Christianity was not widely accepted. Emperor Claudius II had banned marriages for young men, believing that single soldiers made better warriors2. Valentine defied this decree and continued to perform secret weddings for young couples.

Valentine was eventually caught and imprisoned. While in jail, he is said to have cared for fellow prisoners and even cured the jailer’s blind daughter. Before his execution on February 14, 270 AD, he wrote a note to the girl, signing it “From your Valentine,” which is where the tradition of sending Valentine’s cards originated3.

Over time, Valentine’s Day became associated with love and romance, thanks to Geoffrey Chaucer and other writers who linked the day to romantic love in the Middle Ages. Today, it’s celebrated with cards, flowers, chocolates, and other gestures of affection