Exploring the Origins of St. Patrick's Day

St. Patrick's Day celebrates Irish heritage and its patron saint, St. Patrick, who was born in Britain as Maewyn Sakat. The color green became associated with the holiday during the 1798 Irish rebellion. Traditions include wearing green to avoid leprechaun pinches. St. Patrick was kidnapped by pirates, became a priest, and returned to Ireland to spread Christianity, using the shamrock to explain the Holy Trinity. His legacy includes driving snakes from Ireland. The holiday evolved from a religious observance to a global celebration of Irish culture.

Where was St. Patrick originally from?

• Britain

• Italy

What color was originally associated with St. Patrick?

• Blue

• Yellow

What happens if you don't wear green on St. Patrick's Day, according to tradition?

• You find a pot of gold

• A leprechaun pinches you

How old was St. Patrick when he was kidnapped by Irish pirates?

• 25 years old

• 16 years old

Why did the color green become associated with St. Patrick's Day?

• It represented the Irish rebellion

• It symbolized spring

What did St. Patrick use to explain the Holy Trinity?

• A dove

• A shamrock

What did St. Patrick supposedly drive out of Ireland?

• Snakes

• Dragons

What vision did St. Patrick have that influenced his return to Ireland?

• To bring Christianity to the Irish people

• To lead a rebellion

What is the significance of March 17th?

• St. Patrick's birthday

• The day St. Patrick died

How did St. Patrick's Day evolve in the United States?

• It remained a somber religious holiday

• It became a celebration of Irish pride