In today’s world, bacon is the star of breakfasts and gourmet burgers, a beloved ingredient that brings flavor to nearly any dish. However, in ancient times, it was much more than a tasty treat; it was a highly valued commodity that even served as a form of currency in ancient Rome. Let’s dive into the fascinating history of how bacon became money in ancient Rome and the vital role it played in the everyday lives of the Roman people.
The Origins of Bacon in Roman Times
Bacon as we know it—a cured and salted slice of pork—has been around for centuries, originating as a way to preserve meat. The Roman legions, known for their remarkable discipline and rigorous training, relied on cured meats as part of their diet. Pork, which was abundant, easy to raise, and relatively inexpensive, became a staple of the Roman diet. The term “bacon” actually comes from a Middle English word, but in ancient Rome, it was known as “petaso.” This cured pork product became a staple food source that fed soldiers and common people alike.
Why Was Bacon So Valuable?
Bacon was not only a popular food item; it was also practical and valuable in a society that depended on long-lasting, preservable food. Meat preservation techniques at the time, including salting and smoking, were critical for survival, particularly during colder months or when food supplies were limited. Because of its long shelf life and nutritional value, bacon emerged as a crucial commodity in Roman households and in the military. For the Romans, food wasn’t merely a means of survival; it was a symbol of wealth and prosperity. Bacon, especially because of its practical value, soon found a unique place in their economy and was considered valuable enough to be used as a medium of exchange.
Bacon as Currency
The concept of using food as currency isn’t as strange as it might sound. In many ancient societies, food staples like salt, livestock, and grain were used as currency or bartered for goods and services. For Rome, bacon had high worth due to its nutritional content and longevity. It was frequently used in place of metal coins, especially in smaller communities or during wartime when resources were stretched thin. Ancient records indicate that, at times, soldiers were even paid in “bacon rations” instead of coins, which they could then trade or use to procure other necessities.
When paid with bacon, Roman soldiers could feed themselves or their families for an extended period, making bacon an ideal medium of trade. Farmers, too, would exchange bacon for supplies or labor, and Roman marketplaces would often see bacon as a staple barter item.
Legacy of Bacon in Roman Culture
While the use of bacon as currency may have dwindled as the Roman Empire expanded and developed more standardized coinage, the idea of bacon as a valued commodity remained strong in Roman culture. The Romans are credited with pioneering many pork curing techniques that spread across Europe and evolved into the various types of bacon we know today.
Bacon’s role in Roman society reminds us of the era when food items held intrinsic value beyond flavor alone. In the end, this love for bacon wasn’t merely about taste; it was about survival, wealth, and the sustenance of an empire.
