The Valentine story centres on a Christian priest in third-century Rome who defied Emperor Claudius II by secretly marrying couples when marriage was banned for soldiers. Valentine believed love was sacred, so he risked his life to bless unions. He was caught, imprisoned, and eventually executed on February 14.
Legend says he even healed his jailer’s blind daughter and sent her a note signed “Your Valentine” before his death. Over time, his sacrifice became linked with romance, courtly love traditions, and choosing sweethearts. That’s how Saint Valentine’s name turned into the global celebration we know today.
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