January is the first month of the year in the Gregorian Calendar, and has 31 days. It is named for Janus, the Roman god of doors and gateways.

The original Roman calendar consisted of 10 months (304 days). The Romans originally considered winter a monthless period. Circa 700 BCE Romulus' successor, King Numa Pompilius, added the months of January and February allowing the calendar to equal a standard lunar year (354 days). A Roman superstition against even numbers resulted in the addition of one day thus equalling 355 days. Although March was originally the first month, January usurped that position because that was when consuls were usually chosen.

The first day of the month is known as New Year's Day.

Historical names for January include its original Roman designation, Januarius, the Saxon term Wulf-monath (meaning wolf month) and Charlemagne's designation Wintarmanoth (winter / cold month).

¶ 11:35 AM

 Lainnir, the Wanderer said...
Wow! Great facts! :D  

Post a Comment