The First Valentine

We tend to think of Valentine's Day cards as life-affirming, pleasant notes indicating our appreciation of one another. The first Valentine card was a little different! When Roman emperor Claudius ordered the execution of a disobedient priest, the clergyman (Valentine) somehow found an opportunity to send a written message to a loved one.

The small note was signed, "your Valentine." The priest was executed on February 14. Later, after his canonization our current holiday came into being. The first Valentine wasn't a cute message in the shape of a heart-it was a last message from a condemned martyr.

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St Valentine
Who Was Valentine?
St Valentine's Day
History of Valentines Day
Valentine's History
Valentine Legends
Guide for Lovers
Customs of the Past
Valentine's Day Traditions
Around the World
Valentine's Day in Spain
A Valentine's Tradition
The First Valentine
History of Valentine Cards
Vinegar Valentines
Valentine's Cards
Valentine's Phone Calls
Valentine Trivia
Great Romances
Valentine's Day Massacre

Valentine Tales
Valentine Romance
Valentine Gifts, Cards
Valentine Crafts
Valentine Cooking
Valentine Singles
History, Customs 

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