Thread: april fool
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Old 04-01-2002, 03:19 AM   #21
Søren
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Join Date: Dec 2000
Posts: 8,539
Big Grin History lesson ya'll

This is the story about the origin of the April Fool's Day:

Quote:
Originally, according to one source, it began in 1564 (or 1582) when the French King Charles IX decreed that France adopt the Gregorian Calendar. Under the older Julian Calendar, the Spring Equinox was also the beginning of the New Year. New Year's festivals was celebrated from March 25th and ended on April 1. Under the newer one, New Year's Day was moved to January 1 from previous April 1. Those that celebrated the old day through forgetfulness or custom were called "Fools". They were ridiculed and sent silly gifts or invitations to nonexistent parties, in some cases.

source
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