“We are what we eat.” This is right from the perspective of health, and also means what kind of identity we represent from the perspective of history. “11 Pies” in American history marks the birth of a country, the inheritance of Western culture, the revolution of ethnic equality, and the commercial activities.
The Birth of the US and the Inheritance of Western Culture
Apple is a common food in the UK. The first immigrants from the UK to the US made Apple pies to soothe their hardship with the birthland memories, but at the same time, cooked them in a new way to establish a whole new identity, separating themselves from the past. Since then, apple pies have become the symbol of the U.S from the corner of the family to the psychological support on the war field.
The Pursuit of Equality
Pumpkin pie, molasses pie, sweet potato pie, and many others. These kinds of pies tell how the Aboriginal people, black people, and women fought for their deprived land and rights in the country. Sugar was why people were enslaved because of its economic value. This is why sugar-related pies are mentioned here. The ingredients of the pies are related to the history, and history is always driven by economic interest.
Commerical Incentives
Pecan Pie, Jell-O Pie. They are pies that represent the breakthrough of the food storage technology and the psychological marketing strategy. “This is the pie that shows the value of a woman at home.” A slogan like this is promoted by the food companies to boost sales.
This book links the evolution of social identity, commercial needs, and emotional connection. Pie is not merely a kind of food on our dining table, but a symbol of a country’s history and sense of belonging. In addition to pies, various dishes on our daily table could be books of history.
