During this historical period of the Roman Empire, young men were frequently discouraged from getting married because it was thought that married men would be poor soldiers.

In spite of this a Christian Bishop named Valentine invited young lovers to secretly come to him for the sacrament of marriage. This resulted in a clash with the military that caused the unfortunate Valentine to be beheaded.

Afterward Valentine was sainted and many St. Valentine's day traditions were established.

Roman Emperor Valentinian I was probably named after the saint. Additional Valentine's day customs flourished during the reign of Valentinian I and his family.

A brief biographical sketch follows:

Valentine I was born in Gibalae (near modern Osijek Croatia). He was an important military figure under the emperors Julian and Jovian. Upon the death of the latter, he was elected by the Roman army to succeed Jovian. Valentinian chose his brother Valens to share his rule as Roman emperor of the east, and reserved for himself Illyricum, Italy, Gaul (roughly conforming to modern France). Britain, Spain, and north Africa. Under his administration, the Roman authority was restored in Gaul, Africa, and Britain, and victories were won over the Alamanni. Valentinian furthered education throughout his empire and provided medical care for the poor of Rome. Although an orthodox Christian, he was tolerant in matters of religion.