Discover the Truth Behind Some of Your Favorite St. Patrick’s Day Traditions
March 16, 2017
Learn about these St. Patrick’s Day traditions, so you’re ready to celebrate.
It’s that time of year again. The river has been dyed green, and it’s time to watch out for mischievous leprechauns. It’s time for St. Patrick’s Day. As you get ready to celebrate, learn about the history behind some of your favorite St. Patrick’s Day traditions. Check out these St. Patrick’s Day facts that you can share with your friends and family.
St. Patrick was British.
Celebrated as the patron saint of Ireland, St. Patrick wasn’t Irish. Born in England, which was at the time still part of the Roman Empire, St. Patrick was technically Roman. At a young age, he was captured and brought to Ireland as a slave. He later escaped back to England, and later returned to Ireland to bring Christianity to the island.
Green is Not the Original Color of St. Patrick’s Day.
We all associate St. Patrick’s Day with green. However, the original color associated with St. Patrick was blue. Green became the predominate color in the 18th century when sentiments of Irish nationalism were on the rise. Green, along with the shamrock, became symbols of Ireland as they struggled for independence from the British. Since, green has become the associated color with Ireland.
Corned Beef and Cabbage is More American Than Irish.
We associate this meal as a staple of St. Patrick’s Day. However, it’s more of an American invention than an Irish one. Traditionally, St. Patrick’s Day was a religious holiday during which you would eat a festive meal. However, in the U.S. on the Lower East Side, meat was expensive. It’s said that Irish immigrants bought corned beef from their Jewish neighbors as a cheaper alternative to ham.
When it comes to your celebrations, bear these St. Patrick’s Day traditions in mind. Don’t rely on the luck of the Irish when it comes to your insurance. Get the right insurance policies from your independent insurance agency in Chicago. Located in Illinois, Thomas Ward Insurance serves all your personal and commercial insurance needs. Contact us for more information.
