The History of February and Why It Has 28 Days | Explained

Updated at 07-02-2023 · Science

February is one of the twelve months in the modern calendar and has 28 days in a normal year and 29 days in a leap year. Understanding the history of the calendar and why February has 28 days is crucial for anyone who wants to gain a deeper appreciation for timekeeping and the evolution of our modern-day calendar.

Ancient Roman Calendar

The ancient Roman calendar originally had ten months, with January and February being added later. February was added to the calendar as a way to honor the god of death and the underworld, Februus. The month was originally 29 days long and was later shortened to 28 days.

The Julian Calendar

The Julian calendar, introduced by Julius Caesar in 45 BC, changed the length of February to 28 days and introduced the concept of a leap year. In a leap year, an extra day was added to February, making it 29 days long. This was done to ensure that the calendar year would align with the solar year and avoid drifting.

The Gregorian Calendar

The Gregorian calendar, introduced by Pope Gregory XIII in 1582, is the current calendar used globally. It further adjusted the length of February to 28 days and refined the leap year rules. The Gregorian calendar ensured that the calendar year would stay aligned with the solar year and continue to do so into the future.

Why February Has 28 Days

February has 28 days because it is the shortest month in the calendar. The 28-day cycle ensures that the calendar year stays in alignment with the solar year and prevents the calendar from drifting. In a leap year, an extra day is added to February, making it 29 days long.

Understanding the history of the calendar and why February has 28 days is crucial for anyone who wants to gain a deeper appreciation for timekeeping and the evolution of our modern-day calendar. The evolution of the calendar, from the ancient Roman calendar to the Gregorian calendar, has ensured that the calendar year stays in alignment with the solar year and continues to do so into the future.