While Americans began celebrating Valentine’s Day in the early 1700s, it wasn’t until the 1840s that it became a commercial holiday complete with mass-produced Valentine’s-themed goods.
Greeting cards, candy, flowers, and jewelry are Valentine’s-Day-Approved gifts and are among the most frequently gifted items (along with stuffed animals and perfume/cologne):
Contrary to stereotypes, the majority of men say they would love to receive flowers for Valentine’s Day:
Alas, 21% of them have never been so blessed:
This may upset primarily the young:
But, of course, they have the greatest chance of one day having their dreams come true.
What I’m saying is: “Go ahead! Buy your man some daisies!”
For more on Valentine’s Day, visit this fun graphic (via Chart Porn).
—————————
Lisa Wade is a professor of sociology at Occidental College. You can follow her on Twitter and Facebook.
