All Fool's Day
The first of April, some do say
Is set apart for All Fool's Day;
But why the people call it so
Nor I, nor they themselves, do know,
But on this day are people sent
On purpose for pure merriment.
~Anonymous~
The History Of
April Fool's Day
It is said that In sixteenth-century France, the start of the new year was observed on April first.
It was celebrated in much the same way as it is today with parties and dancing into the late hours of the night. Then in 1562, Pope Gregory introduced a new calendar for the Christian world, and the new year fell on January first.
There were some people, however, who hadn't heard or didn't believe the change in the date, so they continued to celebrate New Year's Day on April first. Those who refused or forgot were ridiculed by being sent foolish gifts and invitations to nonexistent parties. Others played tricks on them and called them "April Fools."
Today Americans play small tricks on friends and strangers alike on the first of April. Whaever the trick, if the innocent victim falls for the joke the prankster yells, "April Fool!" April Fool jokes are in good fun and not meant to harm anyone. the most clever April Fool joke is the one where everyone laughs, especially the person upon whom the joke is played.
