A history of pizza: from ancient flatbreads to cheesy slices

This children’s article, A history of pizza: from ancient flatbreads to cheesy slices, has been written for native English speakers and learners of English as a second or foreign language. It can help children build vocabulary, learn about world food history, and discover fun facts about one of the most popular dishes today. Written by Mark Pulley, a teacher and writer who creates fun and informative news articles for English learners.

From flatbread to pizza

Long before pizzas looked like the ones we know today, people in ancient Rome and other cultures were eating flatbreads topped with oils and herbs. These early versions were simple, but they gave people a tasty, easy-to-make meal.

The real birthplace of modern pizza is Naples, Italy, in the 1700s. Poorer workers in the city wanted food that was cheap, filling, and quick. Flatbread with tomato became a local favourite, and soon, bakers began adding cheese and herbs.

The Margherita story

One of the most famous pizzas is the Margherita pizza, which has tomato, mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil. It was created in 1889 when Queen Margherita of Italy visited Naples. A local chef made a pizza in the colours of the Italian flag, red tomatoes, white mozzarella, and green basil, and named it after her.

This simple but delicious recipe became the model for many pizzas that followed. Today, the Margherita is still loved around the world as the classic Italian pizza.

Pizza around the world

From Naples, pizza spread across Italy and eventually to other countries. When Italian immigrants moved to America in the late 1800s and early 1900s, they brought pizza with them. In the United States, pizza became hugely popular, especially after World War II, when returning soldiers wanted the food they had tasted in Italy.

Now, pizza is eaten everywhere. From New York’s thin slices to Chicago’s deep dish, and from frozen supermarket pizzas to gourmet restaurant creations, there’s a style for everyone.

Fun pizza facts

Did you know the most popular topping in the United States is pepperoni? In Italy, however, people usually prefer simpler pizzas, like Margherita or marinara.

Pizza is now a global dish, and there are some very interesting versions available around the world. In Japan, you can find pizzas topped with squid, while in Sweden, bananas are sometimes used as a topping. No matter what goes on top, pizza has become one of the world’s favourite comfort foods.

Article vocabulary list

• Flatbread: A simple type of bread made without yeast, usually thin.
• Mozzarella: A soft white cheese from Italy, often used on pizza.
• Basil: A green herb with a sweet smell, used in cooking.
• Immigrant: A person who moves to live in another country.
• Legend: A story that is told as true, even if some details may not be.
• Classic: Something traditional and well-known.
• Gourmet: High-quality food that is often fancy or special.
• Topping: The food items placed on top of a pizza.
• Comfort food: Food that makes people feel happy and cosy.
• Dish: A type of prepared food, like pizza, pasta, or curry.

Comprehension questions

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