With St. Patrick’s Day just around the corner, I can’t help but reflect on the history behind the holiday—and my own deep desire to visit Ireland. While many today associate March 17th with parades, shamrocks, and all things green, the holiday has a much richer history rooted in faith and tradition.
Who Was St. Patrick?
St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, was born in Roman Britain in the late 4th century. As a teenager, he was kidnapped by Irish raiders and taken to Ireland as a slave. He eventually escaped, but during his time in captivity, he found solace in his faith. Years later, he returned to Ireland—not as a captive, but as a missionary. He devoted his life to spreading Christianity across the island, using the shamrock to explain the Holy Trinity. His influence was so profound that by the time of his death (believed to be on March 17, 461 AD), Ireland had become largely Christian.
Originally, St. Patrick’s Day was a solemn religious feast celebrated by the Catholic Church. It remained a primarily religious holiday in Ireland for centuries, with church services and quiet observances rather than the large public celebrations we see today. It wasn’t until Irish immigrants in America popularized the parades and festive traditions that St. Patrick’s Day became the vibrant celebration of Irish culture that we now know.
A Historian’s Draw to Ireland
As someone who holds a Master of Arts in History, my love for the past runs deep. My research focused on the English Reformation and the Supreme Head of the Church, which led me to spend 18 months studying the United Kingdom and, in turn, its neighboring countries. That time sparked something in me—an undeniable pull toward England, Scotland, and especially Ireland.
There’s something about Ireland’s rich history, its deep connection to the Church, and its breathtaking landscapes that captivates my historian heart. From the rolling green countryside to the ancient ruins and centuries-old churches, I want to experience it all. I dream of walking through Dublin’s Trinity College to see the Book of Kells, exploring the hauntingly beautiful Cliffs of Moher (relive my Harry Potter loving soul's favorite scene) and standing in awe before the ancient passage tomb of Newgrange, which predates even the Egyptian pyramids.
More Than Just a Holiday
St. Patrick’s Day isn’t just about wearing green or indulging in festive treats—it’s a day to reflect on faith, history, and heritage. For me, it’s also a reminder of the places I long to visit and the stories waiting to be uncovered.
So, as we celebrate this St. Patrick’s Day, I’ll be thinking not just of shamrocks and celebrations, but of Ireland itself—the land of saints and scholars, of history and legend. And one day, I’ll see it all with my own eyes.
What’s your favorite part of St. Patrick’s Day? Have you ever been to Ireland? Let’s chat in the comments!
