Read these fun facts to learn more about how Valentine's Day traditions developed over the years. Surprisingly Valentine's Day chocolate and Valentine's Day cards have been a major part of the holiday for more than 150 years.
In Medieval times people who couldn't write their names signed with an 'X' in front of a witness. The 'X' was then kissed to show sincerity. Many believe this is how the 'X' symbol became synonymous with the kiss.
It is believed that lovers first began exchanging mementos in the 17th century, perhaps heeding the words of Shakespeare's Hamlet, "Sweets to the Sweet."
Cheaper postage and mass-produced cards in the 17th and 18th centuries added to the increasing popularity of Valentine's Day.
Esther Howland was the first American to make commercial Valentine's Day cards out of scraps of ribbon, lace and pictures.
Presently there are 192 million Valentine's Day cards exchanged annually.
Chocolate is a traditional Valentine's Day gift. Throughout history, it was believed that chocolate brought smiles to the broken-hearted and prompted amorous feelings. In the 1800's physicians commonly advised their patients to eat chocolate to calm their pining for lost love.
