You Just Won a Million Dollars....April Fool's!

Know The Heritage Before You Prank

            On April 1^st many countries celebrate April Fool’s Day (also known as All Fool’s Day). April Fool’s Day serves host to a variety of hoaxes or practical jokes on friends, family, teachers etc. As you read this article you are likely reminiscing about that remarkable prank you once pulled. Before you are overcome by the pangs of nostalgia you should think about one simple question…"why”? Because most of us grow up in the culture of participating in the festivities of April Fools, we never stop to think about why we take part in this holiday and how it came to be about.

The History of April Fools

            The history of April Fool’s Day dates back to the ancient period cultures of Rome and medieval Europe. During this time, the ancient people celebrated New Year’s Day near the time of the vernal equinox each year. This could range from March 20^th to April 5^th as the time period was still adhering under the context of the Julian calendar. In 1582, Pope Gregory XIII ordered the adoption of the new Gregorian Calendar, which is still used in modern times, making New Year’s Day January 1^st.

            Pope Gregory’s order was met with two major obstacles that were crucial in the formation of April Fool’s Day. Communications during the sixteenth century were sluggish and many people refused to change old traditions. When King Charles IX of France officially changed the first day of the year from April 1^st to January 1^st, a significant portion of his subjects continued to utilize the prior system instead of adhering to the Gregorian calendar.

            The French who resisted the change were dubbed fools and many pranks were pulled. This included many modern-style pranks that consisted of causing someone to believe a false statement, sending a “fool” on a false errand, and sending them fake invitations to nonexistent parties. April Fool’s Day evolved through the years and eventually took on a more light-hearted and joyous tone. People prepared mischief to have fun and enjoy a good time.