A History of the Burger: From Ancient Rome to the Drive-Thru
Ancient Origins: Burgers are ancient. The Romans had "Isicia Omentata," a minced meat patty that may have been the first burger.
Middle Ages: Mongol horsemen carried raw meat under their saddles into combat.
Hamburg Steak:The hamburger's direct ancestor is Hamburg steak. Hamburg was famed for its high-quality meat in the 19th century, so cooks created the "Hamburg steak," a seasoned, grilled ground beef patty.
Migration to America : Hamburg steak was brought to America by German immigrants in the late 19th century. It was served without bread at American restaurants and was a hit.
Creation of the Hamburger Sandwich : There are various claims to the invention of the hamburger sandwich, a ground beef patty served between two slices of bread or a bun.
Popularization and Evolution: The 1904 St. Louis World's Fair popularized the hamburger. Fairgoers loved its taste, convenience, and ease of eating.
Drive-Ins and Fast Food: In the 1920s and 1930s, drive-in restaurants and chains like White Castle, which started in 1921, popularized hamburgers.
McDonald's and Fast-Food Boom: McDonald's' 1950s ascent boosted burger appeal. The company's efficient production, constant quality, and low prices made burgers a staple of American cuisine.