The Food That Built America Snack Sized Season 1 Episode 9 A Burger Is Born

A Burger Is Born, the ninth episode of season 1 of The Food That Built America Snack Sized, takes a deep dive into the history of one of America's most beloved foods - the hamburger. The episode explores the origins of the burger, from its humble beginnings as a beef patty between two slices of bread to the iconic fast food staple it is today.

Viewers are taken back to the late 1800s, when raw meat was thought to carry dangerous bacteria and was rarely consumed. However, a butcher named Louis Lassen saw an opportunity to create a cheap, portable meal for his customers by cooking up chopped beef and placing it between two pieces of bread. Thus, the first hamburger was born.

As the industrialization of America increased, so did the demand for cheap, quick meals. The episode delves into the rise of fast food chains, including the birth of White Castle in 1921. White Castle's founders, Billy Ingram and Walter Anderson, revolutionized the industry by developing a system for cooking burgers quickly and efficiently. Their tiny burgers, nicknamed "sliders," quickly became a hit with consumers looking for cheap, filling meals.

The episode also explores the impact of the automobile on the food industry, as drive-ins and drive-thrus became popular destinations for hungry travelers. One such establishment, McDonald's, revolutionized the fast food industry with its production line system and standardized menu. The episode explores the rise of the McDonald's empire and the cultural impact of its famous Golden Arches.

In addition to the history of the burger, the episode also examines the cultural significance of this quintessentially American food. The burger has become a symbol of American identity, representing everything from the freedom of the open road to the excesses of American consumer culture.

Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to interviews with historians, food industry experts, and burger enthusiasts. The show also features archival footage and reenactments to bring the history of the burger to life.

Overall, A Burger Is Born is a fascinating exploration of the history and cultural significance of one of America's most beloved foods. The episode is sure to leave viewers hungry for more, both for burgers and for knowledge about the fascinating history of American food.