Chicago: More Than Just Deep Dish Pizza
Who Knew the Windy City Used to Be Called... Garlic Town?
Let's talk about Chicago. Not the deep dish pizza, the skyscrapers, or the Bulls. Let's talk about its name. Because, let's face it, Chicago is a pretty cool name, but it wasn't always so. Once upon a time, this bustling metropolis was known by a name that sounds like something out of a medieval cooking show.
Chicagou: The Onion-y Origin Story
So, what was Chicago originally called? Drumroll, please... Chicagou. That’s right, folks. A name that sounds like a sneeze after eating a raw onion. Before it was the city of broad shoulders, it was the city of, well, strong-smelling plants.
Apparently, the name comes from a Native American word meaning "wild onion" or "skunk." Yeah, you heard that right. Skunk. So, next time you're enjoying a Chicago dog, just remember, you're technically eating a hot dog in Skunk Town.
Not So Windy Back Then
And here's a fun fact: Chicago wasn't always the Windy City. In fact, it was probably pretty calm and quiet back when it was Chicagou. No towering skyscrapers to block the wind, just a bunch of people wondering why their eyes were burning.
So, why the name change? Good question! It's like when you grow out of your baby name and decide to go by something cooler. Maybe the original settlers realized that "Chicagou" wasn't exactly the most inspiring city name and decided to go for something with a bit more pizzazz.
Fast Facts About Chicago's Name Change
- No official renaming ceremony. As far as we know, there wasn't a big party or anything. It was probably more of a casual, "Hey, let's call it Chicago now" kind of situation.
- No hard feelings from the onions. We assume the onions were okay with it. After all, they probably had bigger things to worry about, like getting chopped up for salad.
- The name stuck. And thank goodness for that. Can you imagine navigating your way around Chicagou? It would be like trying to find your way through a maze of onion breath.
How to Impress Your Friends with Chicago Trivia
- How to pronounce Chicagou: She-kah-goo. Just in case you ever find yourself in a trivia contest.
- How to explain the name change: Blame it on the onions. Or the early settlers' lack of imagination. Your choice.
- How to order a Chicago-style hot dog: With everything on it. Except maybe an onion. Just kidding.
- How to survive a Chicago winter: Layers, people. Lots and lots of layers.
- How to appreciate Chicago's rich history: Start with the name Chicagou and work your way up.