Emperor Claudius required soldiers to fight battles for him. He was of the opinion that married men made very bad soldiers since they gave priority to their families and most of the married soldiers were reluctant to leave their families for battle. Hence Claudius abolished the concept of marriage.
Bishop Valentine took it upon himself to get the soldiers married. He used to secretly invite lovers to his place and conduct their marriages. When Emperor Claudius learnt about this he was furious and had Valentine arrested.
According to the legend while in jail and awaiting execution Valentine fell in love with the blind daughter of the jailer. Before his execution Valentine had sent her a message signed “From Your Valentine”. Till date, this phrase coined by Valentine remains ever popular and is used worldwide on Valentine's Day.