Love & Murder - The Real Story of Valentines Day

By Tyler Gilvin and Miles Miller

Valentine’s Day is a time to celebrate your love and affection for different people by giving flowers, candy, and cards. But it didn’t start that way. 

St. Valentine was a Roman Catholic priest born around 210 AD who was killed because of his beliefs around 270 AD by Emperor Claudius. He became a martyr known for his religious teachings. During the 5th century, Pope Gelasius declared that we would honor the death of St. Valentine by having a feast. 

Valentine's Day did not become a romantic holiday until around the 14th century, where it was noted that lovebirds flourished during that time period. Levi, a 7th grader said, “there is not really much point to it.” Ben, another 7th grader, said, “My mom makes heart shaped pancakes.” Ben also recalls giving chocolates and other candy to classmates on Valentine’s Day. This Valentine’s Day, show your affection to the people around you in your own creative way.