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March Factoid | Back To Main Factoid Page
We hope you enjoy this month's freshly gathered facts direct from the magnetic fields of Planet
Factoid!
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"March Factoids" — March 2000
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1. Where did the word "March" come from?
March is named for the Roman God Mars. He was the god of war and guardian of the state.
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2. What is the birthstone for March?
The March birthstone is aquamarine, which is Latin for "Water of the Sea." Its color ranges from light blue to blue-green.
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3. Does spring begin in March?
Yes. Spring arrives when the earth is tilted at a right angle to the sun, not toward the sun as in the summer, or away from
the sun as in the winter. This usually occurs on March 20th or 21st. Leap years often affect this date. This year spring
will arrive on March 20th.
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St. Patrick's Day
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4. When is St. Patrick's Day?
St. Patrick's Day is on March 17th.
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5. How did St. Patrick's Day begin?
St. Patrick's Day was named for Father Patrick, Bishop of Ireland. Born as Maewyn Succat around 373 A.D., he later changed
his name to Patrick and was appointed Bishop of Ireland in 432 A.D. His mission was to convert Irishmen to Christianity.
He died March 17, 461 A.D. His death has been celebrated each year since.
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6. What are leprechauns?
The leprechaun has been described as Ireland's national fairy. Legend describes them as aged pygmy-type men. Through the
years they have become known as little men in green. They are self-appointed guardians of ancient treasure, which they bury
in pots. If caught, leprechauns promise great wealth if allowed to go free.
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7. Can you really find a pot of gold at the end of the rainbow?
I for one have never been able to find the end of a rainbow. Can you?
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8. Why are 4-leaf clovers lucky? Are these what they call shamrocks?
A shamrock, (3 leaves), was said to be used by Patrick to explain the trinity to his converts. Because of this, the shamrock
has become the symbol of the land of Ireland. Unlike shamrocks, 4-leaf clovers are quite rare. This is why they are said to
bring luck if found.
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9. What's a Blarney Stone and why do people kiss it?
The Blarney Stone is a stone set in the wall of Blarney Castle's tower in the Irish village of Blarney. Kissing the stone is
supposed to bring the kisser the ability to speak sweetly and convincingly.
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10. Why do kids at school pinch you if you don't wear green on St. Patrick's Day?
The wearing of green has become tradition on this holiday because it is the color of spring, Ireland, and the shamrock.
It helps people get into the mood of the holiday. As they say, "On this day everybody is Irish!" It is unknown as to why
children are taunted for not wearing green or how the tradition of arm pinching became the punishment. Perhaps it is
because they are thought of as party poopers. Be on the safe side and wear a tad of green! Or pad those arms well.
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