Hot dogs, also known as frankfurters, are one of the most popular foods in America. They are often served grilled or boiled and placed in a bun with various condiments. But have you ever wondered why they are called hot dogs? In this article, we will explore the history and origin of the name hot dogs.
The Origin of Hot Dogs
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The origin of hot dogs can be traced back to the 19th century in Germany. The city of Frankfurt-am-Main was known for its sausages, which were made with pork and beef. These sausages were known as frankfurters.
These frankfurters were brought to America by German immigrants in the mid-1800s. They were initially sold by street vendors in New York City, who called them dachshund sausages because of their long, thin shape, which resembled the popular dog breed.
The Birth of the Name "Hot Dog"
The name "hot dog" was first coined in the late 1800s by a sports cartoonist named T.A. Dorgan. Dorgan attended a baseball game at the Polo Grounds in New York City, where he saw vendors selling the dachshund sausages.
As the story goes, Dorgan heard the vendors yelling, "Get your dachshund sausages here! They're red hot!" But Dorgan, who was known for his witty sayings, thought that the term "dachshund sausage" was too long and awkward. So, he began calling them "hot dogs" instead.
Controversy and Alternative Theories
While the story about T.A. Dorgan is the most widely accepted explanation for the origin of the name hot dog, there are other theories and controversies surrounding the name.
One theory suggests that the name hot dog comes from the use of the word "dog" to describe a sausage in the late 1800s. This theory is supported by the fact that the word "dog" was commonly used to describe sausages in other parts of the world, such as the UK.
Another theory suggests that the name hot dog comes from a popular belief that sausages were made from dog meat. This theory is often dismissed as a myth, as there is no evidence to support the idea that sausages were ever made from dog meat.
The Evolution of Hot Dogs
Since their introduction in America, hot dogs have evolved and become a staple food at sporting events, carnivals, and backyard barbecues. They are now available in a variety of styles, including kosher, all-beef, and veggie dogs.
Hot dogs have also become a symbol of American culture, with famous hot dog stands and restaurants popping up all over the country. Some of the most famous include Nathan's Famous in New York City and Pink's Hot Dogs in Los Angeles.
Conclusion
So, why are hot dogs called hot dogs? While the origin of the name is somewhat of a mystery, it is widely believed that the term was first coined by a sports cartoonist named T.A. Dorgan in the late 1800s. Today, hot dogs are a popular food and a symbol of American culture, enjoyed by millions of people every year.