March

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March is the third month of the year in both the Julian calendar and the Gregorian calendar. It is one of seven months to have a length of 31 days. In the Northern Hemisphere, March marks the transition from winter to spring, while in the Southern Hemisphere, it is the seasonal equivalent of September in the north, marking the transition from summer to autumn. March begins on the same day of the week as February in common years and November every year, ending on the same day of the week as June.

Etymology

The name "March" comes from the Latin word Martius, the first month of the earliest Roman calendar. It was named after Mars, the Roman god of war, and an ancestor of the Roman people through his sons Romulus and Remus. With the reform of the Roman calendar by Julius Caesar in 46 B.C., March became the third month but retained its name.

History

Originally, March was the first month of the year in the Roman calendar. It was considered the month of the Spring Equinox, which occurs around March 20th or 21st. The move of January to the start of the year is attributed to Numa Pompilius, the second king of Rome, who added January and February to the calendar.

Holidays and observances

March encompasses a variety of holidays and observances across the globe. Notable events include St. Patrick's Day on March 17th, celebrated in honor of the patron saint of Ireland, and International Women's Day on March 8th, which recognizes the achievements of women worldwide. Many countries also observe the start of Lent in March, a significant period in the Christian liturgical year leading up to Easter.

Astronomy and astrology

In terms of astronomy, March is a significant month. The Spring Equinox in the Northern Hemisphere occurs in March, marking the astronomical beginning of spring. For those in the Southern Hemisphere, March brings the Autumn Equinox, signaling the start of autumn. Astrologically, individuals born from March 1st to March 20th are under the sign of Pisces, while those born from March 21st to the end of the month are assigned the sign of Aries.

In culture

March has been represented in various cultural contexts. In literature, it is often associated with the themes of war and the brave return of spring. The saying "In like a lion, out like a lamb" describes the typical weather in March, starting with winter's roar and ending with spring's gentleness.

See also

• Months of the year
• Gregorian calendar
• Julian calendar
• Spring Equinox
• Autumn Equinox