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The practice of eating candy on a stick can be traced back to the time when humans discovered honey while living in caves.
However, we do know that ancient Egyptians, Chinese, and Arabs indulged in early versions of lollipops made by coating fresh fruits, nuts, and honey.
Archaeological evidence suggests they would put these treats on sticks to make them less sticky.
The introduction of sugar had a significant impact on the old world.
It led to the creation of new industries focused on candy and chocolate.
During the Middle Ages, the nobility began extensively consuming boiled sugar. At the time, sugar was a rare commodity, and its consumption not only provided a delicious treat but also symbolized wealth and status for the elite.
Early sugar confectioners started producing hardened candy on sticks during this era. Although they didn't specifically refer to them as lollipops, these early treats closely resembled the modern lollipop.
The modern lollipop was invented by George Smith of New Haven, Connecticut, in the early 20th century.
He is credited with popularizing and naming the lollipop.
Around 1905, Smith began experimenting with leftover candy by melting and wrapping it around sticks to create a simple and enjoyable treat for his children.
He focused on making exciting shapes and colors that would attract children.
His invention was a hit, and he started selling them in 1908 as "used candy sticks." Inspired by a favored racehorse, Smith rebranded his creation as "Lolly Pop," the actual name of his horse.
In 1931, he successfully trademarked "Lolly Pop."
Smith’s company was the first to start manufacturing lollipops on a large scale. However, the process was tedious, as his workers would create each lollipop by hand, inserting each stick into the gooey candy one at a time.
The introduction of candy-making machinery changed everything.
The Racine Automatic Lollipop Machine and Samuel Born's Born Sucker machine helped produce thousands of lollipops per hour, automating the production and stick insertion process.
In 1931, an employee at Tootsie Roll Industries (then The Sweets Company of America) created the Tootsie Pop. It is a beloved hard candy lollipop with a chewy Tootsie Roll in the center.
The Tootsie Pop would go on to become the most popular lollipop in America, especially after its iconic 1969 TV commercial, in which they trademarked the question, "How many licks does it take to get to the Tootsie Roll center of a Tootsie Pop?"
Lollipops have appeared in various forms in popular entertainment, marking notable moments such as:
Today, the process of manufacturing lollipops has undergone many fun advancements. Manufacturing methods produce 3D shapes, touchless cooling, and automated wrapping.
Innovative designs, such as edible flowers inside the lollipop, have created beautiful designs that can be used as artistic centerpieces.
Now, lollipops are fully integrated into the modern world and culture.
Lovers of lollipops celebrate National Lollipop Day every July 20th, celebrating the beloved candy-on-a-stick.
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