The History Behind America’s Debate About What To Call Soft Drinks

Americans have long debated whether to call a generic soft drink soda, pop, or coke. The regional divide is clear: Midwesterners prefer pop, while soda is popular in the North and far West. Southerners often ask for coke, with specific preferences for root beer or Coca-Cola. The history of these terms dates back to the 1800s, when carbonated water was marketed as a health drink. Pharmacists sold soda water at soda fountains, leading to the creation of flavored carbonated beverages. The term “soft drink” emerged to distinguish nonalcoholic drinks from hard drinks, with the average American consuming nearly 40 gallons per year. (Story URL)