There are varying opinions as to the origin of Valentine's Day. Some experts state that it originated from St. Valentine, a Roman who was martyred for refusing to give up Christianity. He died on February 14, 269 A.D., the same day that had been devoted to love lotteries. There are many opinions as to the origin of Valentine's Day. Those involved believe that Valentine's Day was started by a man named Sante Valentine. He was a Roman who was brutally murdered for refusing to renounce Christianity on February 14, 269 B.C., the same day that had been devoted to love lotteries throughout the city. daughter, who had become his friend, and signed it "From Your Valentine".　Other aspects of the story say that Saint Valentine left a farewell note for the jailer's daughter, who had become his friend, and signed it "From Your Valentine".　Other aspects of the story say that Saint Valentine served as a priest at the temple during the reign of Emperor Claudius. jailed for defying him. In 496 A.D. Pope Gelasius set aside February 14 to honor St. Valentine. There are other accounts that are quite interesting. For example, it has been suggested that during the reign of King Claudius, Sant Valentine was a priest who was imprisoned for openly challenging the authority of King Claudius. Gradually, February 14 became the date for exchanging love messages and St. Valentine became the patron saint of lovers. patron saint of lovers. The date was marked by sending poems and simple gifts such as flowers. There was often a social gathering or a ball. Since then February 14 has become a day with a The date was marked by sending poems and simple gifts such as flowers. It was a day to send messages of love to the people they loved. And it was only natural that Sant Valentin became a matchmaker for men and women in love. On February 14th, people make poems or give small gifts to their loved ones. People also organize various parties to celebrate this special day.　In the United States, Miss Esther Howland is given credit for sending the first valentine cards. Commercial valentines were introduced in the 1800's and now the date is very important. 's and now the date is very commercialized. Miss Esther Howland is the first person in the United States to be given credit for sending the first valentine cards. Valentine's Day was introduced in the 1800 's and now the date is very commercialized. Today, Valentine's Day is completely commercialized. For example, when February 14th rolls around, people in towns such as Loveland and Colorado send out tons of special Valentine's Day cards.　The town of Loveland, Colorado, does a large post office business around February 14. The spirit of good continues as valentines are sent out with The spirit of good continues as valentines are sent out with sentimental verses and children exchange valentine cards at school. Children at school also like to exchange greeting cards to celebrate this special occasion. Over time, this has become a custom and continues to this day.