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In America, pigs arrived with Christopher Columbus, but Hernando de Soto's 1539 introduction marked the inception of the U.S. pork industry. By the 19th century, bacon became a staple not only at breakfast but critical to military rations. Soldiers consumed bacon during various wars, solidifying its status as a reliable protein source.

The Marketing Revolution of Bacon

The 20th century saw a pivotal marketing shift, largely due to Edward Bernays, the nephew of Sigmund Freud, who employed psychological principles to promote bacon consumption. His campaign to encourage Americans to enjoy hearty breakfasts led to the popularization of bacon and eggs, a combination that has persisted through generations.