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From Pizza to Pups: A Slice of History and Sniff of Genius
How ancient Greeks mastered takeout, marathons got divine sponsorship, and dogs became the ultimate timekeepers.
Max Whitt
December 06, 2024
Welcome to today’s stroll through the land of curious delights. Prepare for a journey involving ancient pizza, a marathon from the heavens, and a canine skill that would make Sherlock Holmes wag his tail. Shall we?
Pizza Predates Italy (Sort Of)
Love pizza? You’re in good company—so did the ancient Greeks! Before the Italians perfected the pie, Greeks baked flatbreads topped with olive oil, herbs, and cheese. It wasn’t exactly a pepperoni pizza, but it laid the foundation for the global obsession. Think of it as the OG takeout menu, minus the delivery scooter.
The First Marathon Was Sponsored by the Gods (Allegedly)
The story of the marathon originates with a Greek soldier named Pheidippides, who ran from the battlefield at Marathon to Athens to deliver a victory message. What’s less known? According to legend, he made a pit stop in Sparta to request backup—running 150 miles in two days. Nike, the Greek goddess of victory, must’ve been impressed. Today’s marathons pale in comparison, but at least they come with medals and hydration stations.
Dogs Can Smell Time (Kind Of)
Fido may not wear a watch, but he knows when it’s dinner time. Dogs’ incredible noses can detect subtle changes in scent that occur over time, allowing them to perceive the passage of hours. For example, as morning air heats up and molecules disperse, your dog knows it’s almost walk o’clock. It’s science meets loyalty, and it might explain why they’re waiting at the door long before you’re ready.
So there you have it: pizza’s Mediterranean makeover, a legendary runner’s divine stamina, and dogs proving once again they’re man’s best (and most punctual) friend. Use these tidbits to charm dinner guests, jogging buddies, or your local barista.
— Max Whitt
