Our Calendar and its Roman ties

Our modern day calendar is known as the Gregorian Calendar and was created by Pope Gregory in the 17th Century. It’s predecessor was the Julian Calendar, which was created by Julius Caesar.

The months of the year as we now know them, as well as the length of our calendar year, originated from the Julian Calendar. Pope Gregory took many of the ancient Roman aspects of this calendar, to keep the tradition alive. 

The months of our year are named after Roman gods, rather than Christian names due to their ties back to Caesar. 

For example; 

January, the beginning of our year, is named for Janus, God of Endings and New Beginnings. 

March is named after Mars, God of War. 

July and August were named after (although not God’s) Emperors Julius and Augustus.

Although there are many similarities between the Julian and Gregorian calendars, there are a few major differences which separate the two. The main difference is that the Gregorian calendar dates back to the birth of Jesus Christ, distinguishing eras by either A.D. (Anno Domini) or B.C (Before Christ). The Julian calendar instead dates back to the founding of Rome (in 753 B.C. by the Gregorian calendar). 

It is very interesting that something so simple in our lives, such as our calendar is so heavily influenced by the ancient past. The Classics have a major impact on different parts of modern life, which many fail to recognize. Next time you write something on your calendar, spare a thought for Julius Caesar.