The new year only has a few days under its belt yet February will be here in no time, which means Valentine’s Day.

This day of honoring significant others with chocolates and flowers comes with few knowing the true history of the saint for which this holiday is named.

Interestingly, there is not one specific St. Valentine. According to History.com, “the Catholic Church recognizes at least three different saints named Valentine or Valentinus, all of whom were martyred.”

Although these St. Valentines had unfortunate endings, it appears, according to legend, their deaths were all for the sake of love and happiness.

One story claims Valentine wed young couples during a time when it was “illegal.”

Another legend claims that Valentine, while in jail, fell in love with his jailer’s daughter and wrote her a note signed “From Your Valentine.”

Lastly, one story claims that Valentine helped Roman prisoners escape because they were treated so poorly.

Do you delve into St. Valentine’s Day history with your class? Please leave us a comment with how you celebrate Valentine’s Day with your students.