Pizza, as we know it today, originated in Naples in the late 18th century. The city, under the rule of the Bourbon dynasty, had become one of the largest in Europe and was growing rapidly due to overseas trade and an influx of rural farmers.

As the urban economy struggled to keep pace, many residents fell into poverty and sought cheap and simple foods to fill their stomachs, leading to the popularity of pizza.

The first pizzas were made with basic ingredients such as garlic and salt, and sometimes included additional toppings like caciocavallo cheese, cecenielli (silverfish), or basil. However, it wasn't until a visit to Naples in 1889 by King Umberto and Queen Margarita that pizza gained acceptance as a dish fit for royalty.

Raffaele Esposito, a local pizzamaker, was called upon to prepare some local specialties for the Queen and made three types of pizza, one of which - a pizza with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil - was named after her and became known as the Margherita Pizza.

This event marked an important shift for pizza, elevating it from a food only suitable for the poor to a dish enjoyed by all and solidifying its status as a national dish of Italy, akin to spaghetti or polenta.

Now, the most famous pizza chain in the world is Pizza Hut, which was founded in Kansas in 1958. With over 12,300 stores in more than 90 countries, Pizza Hut receives over 4 million customers a day and bakes over 1.7 million pizzas.

Today, pizza is a favorite food for many people and has evolved to include a wide range of toppings and flavor combinations, such as durian and lobster pizzas.

Pizza has become a global phenomenon and is enjoyed by people of all cultures and backgrounds. The simplicity of its traditional ingredients (flour, yeast, and tomato sauce) makes it an easy food to customize and adapt to different tastes and preferences.

Pizza has also evolved in terms of its crust, with variations such as thin crust, deep-dish, and even gluten-free options available. The use of different cheeses, meats, vegetables, and herbs as toppings has allowed for endless flavor possibilities.

The pizza industry has also grown to include a wide range of options, from fast-food chains to gourmet pizzerias and even home-delivery services.

In recent years, the pizza industry has seen a trend towards artisanal and authentic pizza-making techniques, with a focus on using high-quality ingredients and traditional methods.

This has led to the popularity of Neapolitan-style pizza, known for its soft, pillowy crust and simple, fresh toppings.

Overall, pizza has come a long way since its humble origins in 18th-century Naples. Its simplicity and adaptability have made it a beloved food around the world, and its evolution continues to keep it relevant and exciting.