St. Patrick’s Day Posters

History of St. Patrick’s Day

St. Patrick, born in Roman Britain during the late 4th century, is a patron saint of Ireland. He was kidnapped and enslaved in Ireland at the age of 16. He escaped but returned to the emerald island to convert the Irish to Christianity in 432 AD. Many legends have been spun around St. Patrick. Most famous is his use of the shamrock to explain the Trinity. Ireland celebrates Saint Patrick with religious services and feasts.

St. Patrick’s Day in American

It was emigrants in the United States who transformed the holiday into a massive celebration of all things Irish. Large American cities, mostly on the east coast, had large numbers of Irish immigrants, who created large celebrations which included parades and parties. It wasn’t until 1737 when Boston, Massachusetts, celebrated the holiday with the largest St. Patrick’s Day parade. New York City followed suit in 1762. Since 1962 Chicago has colored their river green to mark the holiday!

Want more facts about St. Patrick’s Day? Check out these interesting facts you can share with students!