November 4 is a very sweet day in 2019 as it is known as National Candy Day. Candy comes in all sizes, flavors, and colors, making the production grow rapidly into a multi-billion dollar industry. The English word candy was originated from the Arabic word qandi, meaning made of sugar. 

  Candy can be traced back all the way to the cavemen who ate pure honeycombs. Later, groups of people such as the Egyptians and Ancient Greeks both took part in this candy phenomenon. The Egyptians and Ancient Greeks used honey to make different assortments of candied fruits and flowers by using nuts, figs, and different spices. During this time, candy was usually only seen in the houses of the wealthy class, since they were seen as a luxury. However, the first modern candies were not produced until the mid-sixteenth century. Early on, candy was also used as a form of medicine that helped calm the digestive system and soothe a sore throat.

  The first chocolate candy bar was invented by Joseph Fry in 1847. He discovered this by melting cacao butter, cocoa powder, and sugar, which created a paste that was later poured in a mold. The candy bar became very popular during World War I, when American chocolate makers would send the U.S. army anywhere from twenty to forty pounds of chocolate bars to be distributed to troops stationed in Europe. When these soldiers returned, the candy bar industry thrived. One famous candy bar, known to many across the world, is the Hershey’s Bar. Created by Milton S. Hershey through trial and error, the candy bar began to be produced in the early 1900s. 

  While many different types of candy succeeded, there are also many that have been discontinued. Some include Dr. Pepper gum, Chicken Dinner Candy Bar, and Blackjack gum, which was discontinued in 2013 because the machinery used to produce this gum was destroyed due to mechanical errors. 

  When many people think of candy they immediately think of their childhood. Junior Aaliyah Morning said, “Candy reminds me of the best and brightest moments of my childhood.” Many of us associate childhood, with fun activities such as celebrating holidays with our family and friends. The holiday that averagely sells the most candy would be Halloween. In the United States alone, Americans spend about two billion dollars compared to Easter where Americans pay 1.9 billion dollars. 

  National Candy Day is a great excuse to hang out with your friends and explore all the different varieties of candy! From Ancient Egyptians, Ancient Greek to war soldiers, everyone enjoys a delicious piece of candy.