Everything you always wanted to know:
Discover who was the first to celebrate their birthday—and why certain people were not allowed to mark the occasion for a long time.
The earliest confirmed evidence of birthday celebrations points to ancient Egypt.
At that time, however, only the Pharaoh’s birthday was celebrated—specifically, not the day of his actual birth, but the day of his coronation.
People believed that the Pharaoh became a god upon ascending the throne; this divine “birth” was therefore considered more significant than his birth as a human being.
Later, it was likely the Romans who ceased celebrating birthdays solely in honor of gods and rulers, extending the occasion to wealthy citizens as well.
During the celebration, protective spirits were invoked to safeguard the person whose birthday was being celebrated from misfortune and evil influences.
Even back then, birthday celebrations included invitations, well-wishes and blessings, gifts, as well as speeches and poems.
However, initially, only the birthdays of boys and men were celebrated; girls and women were not permitted to officially observe their special day until the 12th century.
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Everything you always wanted to know!
Discover who was the first to celebrate their birthday - and why certain people wer not allowed to mark the occasion for a long time.
How did the birthday cake as we know it today actually originate?
And what was served at the table on a birthday in ancient Rome? Discover fascinating facts about the history of the birthday cake and the origin of the candles on the cake.
Who owns "Happy Birthday"?
Two sisters and a music publisher had a bitter fight over the rights to the famous birthday song.
You are missing the right words for a birthday card?
Discover a selection of cool, heartfeld, thoughtful and inspiring birthday wishes that add a special touch to your greetings.
About socks and boxes...
For their 25th birthday, women traditionally receive a wreath made of boxes, while men get a wreath made of socks. Find out the story behind this german tradition.
Cool – Mexican piñatas
Is a childs birthday coming up? We'll tell you about a Mexican custom that now delights children all over the world.