The day is a big celebration in Irish communities around the world and is a religious and cultural holiday in Ireland. In America, Irish communities in New York, Boston and Chicago host parades, and the Chicago River is dyed green.
According to Encyclopaedia Britannica Saint Patrick was born in Britain in the late 4th century. He was kidnapped at the age of 16 and taken to Ireland as a slave. He later escaped, but returned to covert the country to Christianity, and by the time he died had established monasteries, churches, and schools. The date – March 17 – is understood to be the date of his death.
Last Updated 23 July 2020
