In this very special day of March 17th, the United States gears up to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, a holiday that is steeped in tradition and history. But who was Saint Patrick, and why do we celebrate him?
Saint Patrick is the patron saint of Ireland and is credited with bringing Christianity to the island nation in the 5th century. Born in Britain in the late 4th century, Patrick was captured by Irish raiders at the age of 16 and taken to Ireland as a slave. He eventually escaped and made his way back to Britain, but he returned to Ireland years later as a missionary, spreading Christianity and building churches throughout the land.
One of the most enduring legends surrounding Saint Patrick is that he used the three-leafed shamrock to explain the Holy Trinity to the Irish people, which is why the shamrock has become a symbol of Ireland and of St. Patrick’s Day.
St. Patrick’s Day, a National Day in the United States
In the United States, St. Patrick’s Day has evolved into a celebration of all things Irish, and is observed with parades, parties, and a whole lot of green. The first St. Patrick’s Day parade in the United States was held in New York City in 1762, and since then, cities and towns across the country have held their own parades and celebrations.
To begin with, many Americans, regardless of their ancestry, celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with enthusiasm. Not only people wear green clothing and accessories but also consume traditional Irish foods such as corned beef and cabbage in great quantities. In fact, it is a day for revelry and fun, with no shortage of green beer and Irish whiskey to go around.
But beyond the festivities, St. Patrick’s Day is a time to reflect on the rich cultural heritage of Ireland and the contributions that Irish Americans have made to the United States. From politics to literature to entertainment, Irish Americans have played a prominent role in shaping American society, and St. Patrick’s Day is a celebration of that heritage.
So, whether you’re Irish or not, whether you attend a parade or simply wear a green shirt, St. Patrick’s Day is a day to celebrate the enduring legacy of Saint Patrick and the contributions of Irish Americans to the United States.
