April Fool, Oh So Cruel!

Picture: south.com


So where did it all start. Well according to popular belief April Fool's day began as a part of the Vernal Equinox celebrations which took place usually around March 25th. There are actually many explanations of it's origin but I'm going to talk about the ones I like the best.
Remember Chaucer; notorious Classical writer of the 14th century? His writings show the earliest record of any reference made to April Fool's in his story 'The Nun's Priest's Tale'. It is about two fools and takes place thirty two days from the beginning of March - April 1st!
Also of notable mention is the fact that prior to the establishment of the Gregorian Calendar New Years day originally fell on the first day of April. In Europe prior to the 1500's it was customary to deliver and exchange gifts to friends and relatives to celebrate the 'new beginnings' on April 1st. However in 1564 Charles IX decided that he liked January 1st better and declared it as the replacement New Year (can he do that?). Anyway, there were many who opposed this change and others who were just not aware of it - naturally these people became easy prey for practical jokers who would fool them with felicitous gifts and pranks ostensibly celebrating the New Year. And naturally the tradition continued.

And if you believe any of the above then...

No seriously, these are actual theories. And yes I know the joke would be on me since it's after 12pm and blah, blah, blah...

So if you've been caught out today - sorry! If you haven't then like me you have been spared the indignity and humiliation of looking like a twerp. Well done!

Is it just a bit of fun or is it a day that the vulnerable among us dread? Dunno really, maybe it depends on which end of the prank you are sitting.

Have fun! Be Nice!