and new month!

February is a month of transition, purification, and deep cultural roots. Despite being the shortest month of the year, its history is incredibly dense, spanning from ancient Roman rituals to modern global observations.

1. The Roots:

Purification and “Mud”The name February comes from the Latin word februum, meaning purification. * Roman Origins: In ancient Rome, Februa was a festival of ritual cleansing held on February 15th. Interestingly, February was originally the last month of the calendar year. It was seen as a time to purge the old and prepare for the new year (which began in March).

* Old English Roots:

Before the Latin name took over, Old English speakers called it Solmonath, which literally translates to “Mud Month.” This was a nod to the wet, thawing conditions of the late winter landscape in northern Europe.2. Culture and ObservationsFebruary 2026 is particularly vibrant, as it features several major religious and cultural “resets” overlapping. *

Black History Month:

Originally established in the U.S. and Canada, this month is dedicated to honoring the triumphs and struggles of African Americans throughout history. * Lunar New Year (February 17, 2026): In 2026, the Year of the Horse begins. This is one of the world’s most significant cultural celebrations, emphasizing family reunions, red envelopes for luck, and traditional feasts. *

Ramadan (Beginning approx. February 19, 2026):

The Islamic holy month of fasting, prayer, and reflection begins in mid-February this year, following the lunar cycle. * Mardi Gras / Shrove Tuesday (February 17, 2026): The “Fat Tuesday” celebrations precede the start of Lent (Ash Wednesday, Feb 18), a 40-day period of fasting and repentance in the Christian tradition. *

Valentine’s Day (February 14):

What began as a feast day for Christian martyrs (and possibly a Roman fertility festival called Lupercalia) has evolved into a global celebration of romantic love.

3. Three Notable People February is the birth or death month of some of history’s most influential figures.|

Individual | Significance | Event ||—|—|—|| Abraham Lincoln | The 16th U.S. President who led the country through the Civil War and abolished slavery. Born: Feb 12, 1809

|| Rosa Parks |

The “Mother of the Freedom Movement” whose refusal to give up her bus seat sparked the Montgomery bus boycott. | Born: Feb 4, 1913

|| Steve Jobs |

The co-founder of Apple Inc. and a pioneer of the personal computer and smartphone revolutions. | Born: Feb 24, 1955

Other interest…

“Year of the Horse” predictions for the 2026 Lunar New Year, or perhaps more details on the origins of Groundhog Day?