The tradition of tailgating can be traced back to the First Battle of Bull Run in 1861, where spectators picnicked while watching the battle. The gathering included many notable figures, such as congressmen, who were drawn to the event's significance. The logistics of travel in the 19th century meant that packing food was essential for the journey. While the scene may seem grim today, the combination of food and public events is a long-standing human tradition that predates modern sports.
Interestingly, one of the first instances of what might be considered "tailgating" occurred back in 1861, only it wasn't a sporting event that drew the crowds but the first major battle of the Civil War.
While this description makes the whole affair sound a bit morbid, it is important to remember the time period. It took much longer to travel 30 miles in the 19th century than it does today.
Many of them were congressmen, for whom the outcome of the battle was of great significance. Unfortunately, as the tide turned against the Federal army, they found their escape route crowded.
Humans have a long history of pairing food with sports, and that includes bloodsport.
Collection
[
|
...
]