Saint Patrick lived during the fifth century and is the patron saint and national apostle of Ireland. Born in Roman Britain, he was kidnapped and brought to Ireland as a slave at the age of 16. Although, he escaped, but eventually returned Ireland. The mythology surrounding his life became ever more ingrained in the Irish culture: It is said that he drove all the snakes from Ireland (Although, the conditions in Ireland do not permit environments for snakes to survive) and also that he explained the Holy Trinity (Father, Son and Holy Spirit) using the three leaves of a native Irish clover, the shamrock.
Since 9th or 10th century, people in Ireland have been observing the Roman Catholic feast day of St. Patrick on March 17. Interestingly, the first parade held to honor St. Patrick’s Day took place in the United States by Irish soldiers serving in the English military in the New York City to help the soldiers reconnect with their Irish roots, as well as with fellow Irishmen serving in the English army.
By: Archa Dave
