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Why Did We Start Saying ‘Happy Birthday’ in the First Place?
At this point in history, wishing someone a happy birthday is more of a reflex than it is a courtesy, but it wasn’t always that way. It actually wasn’t until the mid-19th century that birthday traditions became recognized nationwide. In earlier days, these celebrations were reserved for leaders or powerful members of the upper class. For instance, there was a point where all U.S. Americans celebrated George Washington’s birthday, but their own? Well, that would have been a little lavish. But as time went on, things started to shift. Some scholars credit the change to people having fewer children. Others say it was a way for families to finally demonstrate the emotional value their children provided (as a reminder, children were once viewed as economic assets first, little bundles of joy second). A few other developments soon followed. The now iconic “Happy Birthday Song” evolved out of a kindergarten classroom around the same time birthdays were really taking off. By the time we hit the 1930s, the song was already making cameos on Broadway. And as these celebrations became more important, so too did the very concept of time. Once scarce and often inaccurate, household clocks and pocket watches were suddenly high in demand. Not only did these timepieces make it easier for people to track how time passed in their own lives, but it made it easier to keep up with their rapidly industrializing surroundings.
The Best Happy Birthday Wishes to Share With the Ones You Love
Use the messages below to wish someone special a very happy birthday. Whether you’re looking for something simple or something silly, a happy birthday for him or for her, we’ve definitely got you covered!
Funny Happy Birthday Wishes
Simple Birthday Wishes to Send From Afar
Inspirational Messages for Your Best Friend’s Birthday
Happy Birthday Messages for Her
Happy Birthday Wishes for Him
Cute Birthday Quotes From Names You Know
Wrapping Up
That’s it for our list of happy birthday wishes. Be sure to check back with us soon for more material to share with the ones you love. You can also sign up for our newsletter so you don’t miss out on what’s coming next!ae0fcc31ae342fd3a1346ebb1f342fcb
