Norman Allen Jr., age 11, of Great Falls,Mont., for his question:

WHEN DID APRIL FOOLS' DAY ORIGINATE?

The first day of April is called April Fools'  in most Eng is    akin countries, the day is set aside  a time to say harmless jokes.

The victim is called an April fool April Fools' Day originated in an    after the adoption of a reformed calendar by Charles IX in 1564. France was the first nation to adopt this calendar.

Up to that time, the New Year celebration started March 21 and ended April 1. When New Year's Day was changed to Jan. 1, some people still celebrated it April 1. These people came to be known as April fools.

The custom of fooling friends and relatives on that day became popular in France and spread to other countries. It was widespread in England by the 1600s. In France, the victim is called an April fish. In Scotland, he is called an April gowk.