What is the history of the wedding garter tradition?

It's fair to say that in other places, in other times, weddings could be rather crazed affairs, and the garter toss served to make things a little less crazy. But how did this tradition come about?

10 Jewish Wedding Traditions

The Wedding Garter Tradition & Toss History, Explained

What Is a Wedding Garter? History and Alternatives

The History Behind the Bouquet & Garter Toss - Arkansas Bride

Cultural Traditions, HowStuffWorks

Our Bridal Wedding Garters, Melbourne

How the Ethiopian Coffee Ceremony Works

Where Did That Come From? Origins of Popular Wedding Traditions

The Wedding Garter Tradition & Meaning

History of the Wedding Garter Tradition

What is the history of the wedding garter tradition?