Historians say variously that the Middle Ages ended with the fall of Constantinople, in 1453; with the discovery of America, in 1492; or with the beginning of the Reformation, in 1517. A New Empire In The West. The Early Middle Ages, 500-1000.
Halloween's Origins. The word Halloween is derived from the term, All Hallows Eve, which occurred on Oct. 31. All Saints Day or All Hallows Day was the next Day, Nov. 1st. Therefore, Halloween is the eve of All Saints Day. Some say that the origins of Halloween can be traced back to ancient Ireland and Scotland around the time of Christ. On Oct. 31st the Celts celebrated the day because it was when animal herders would move their animals into barns and pens and prepare to ride out the winter. This was also the time of the crop harvests.
Halloween has a murkey history, with historians pointing to several traditions as the origin of the holiday. The most costumed and spooktacular event of the year is far from what originators celebrated centuries ago on October 31. The modern-day developments of Halloween â with its candy, haunted decorations and risque costumes â stem from a blending of traditions. Ancient festivals and remembrances of the dead on the end of October first spawned Halloween. Subsequent celebrations from cultures that believed the living collided with the dead on this date contributed to the now classic customs of the dark holiday. Take a look back on the evolution of Halloween with this timeline: Over 2,000 years ago: While unknown specifically when, itâs believed that Halloween descended from a Celtic festival dating back at least 2,000 years. Known as Samhain, the ancient celebration marked the end of the harvest season on October 31. Pagans believe it to be a day of overlap between the living and the dead.