Fact Check: "Pizza was not invented in Italy"
What We Know
The claim that "pizza was not invented in Italy" is misleading. The history of pizza is deeply rooted in Italy, particularly in the city of Naples. The modern form of pizza, characterized by a flat base of leavened wheat dough topped with tomatoes, cheese, and various other ingredients, originated in Naples during the late 18th century. The word "pizza" itself was first documented in 997 CE in a Latin manuscript from Gaeta, Italy, indicating a long-standing tradition of flatbreads with toppings in the region (History of pizza, Pizza).
The evolution of pizza can be traced back to ancient cultures that prepared flatbreads with toppings, but the specific dish we recognize today as pizza was developed in Italy. The introduction of the tomato to Italy from the Americas in the 16th century was a pivotal moment that contributed to the creation of modern pizza (History of pizza, Who Invented Pizza?).
Analysis
The assertion that pizza was not invented in Italy overlooks substantial historical evidence. While it is true that various cultures have created flatbreads with toppings throughout history, the specific combination of ingredients and the cooking methods that define modern pizza emerged in Naples. The Neapolitan pizza, which includes the famous Margherita and Marinara varieties, is recognized as a traditional specialty by the European Union and was inscribed on UNESCO's list of intangible cultural heritage in 2017 (Pizza, The Incredible History of Pizza).
Critically assessing the sources, the historical documentation from both Wikipedia and History.com provides reliable information about the origins of pizza, emphasizing its Italian roots. While there are many variations of flatbreads globally, the claim fails to acknowledge that these do not equate to the invention of pizza as we know it today.
Additionally, the narrative that pizza's origins could be attributed to other cultures lacks substantial backing from credible historical accounts. The sources that support the Italian origin of pizza are well-documented and widely accepted in culinary history.
Conclusion
The claim that "pizza was not invented in Italy" is False. The evidence clearly indicates that modern pizza originated in Naples, Italy, with a rich history that includes the first documented use of the term "pizza" in 997 CE. While flatbreads with toppings have existed in various cultures, the specific dish known as pizza is undeniably Italian in origin.
