BY PREMA KAPOOR

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Celebrated on March 17th, St. Patrick’s Day commemorates Saint Patrick, an Irish patron saint on the anniversary of his death. After he returned to Ireland after being kidnapped at the age of 16, Saint Patrick introduced Christianity to Ireland and established monasteries, churches, and schools. There were many legends that surrounded him, including that he forced the snakes out of Ireland, and would use the shamrock to explain the Holy Trinity, which explains why shamrocks are so closely associated with this holiday.

While St. Patrick’s Day was only an Irish holiday, emigrants transformed the day into a celebration of all things Irish. Elaborate celebrations and parades would take place, with people all wearing green or a shamrock to take part in the festivities.

On behalf of the News Team, Happy St. Patrick’s Day!