The Shamrock has been used as a symbol of Ireland since the 18th century, much like the rose is symbolic of England and the thistle is symbolic of Scotland. St. Patrick, a 5th Century Christian Bishop who visited Ireland, used this trefoil (3-leaved plant) to educate pagans about Christianity. Patrick picked a shamrock from the grass growing at his feet and used it as a metaphor to explain The Holy Trinity: that God is three divine persons (The Father, Son, and Holy Spirit), in One.
The shamrock is a traditional symbol worn by millions (Irish and Non-Irish alike!) all over the world on St. Patrick’s Day, March 17. While the harp is Ireland’s national symbol, the shamrock has become Ireland’s international symbol.
