Did Earl of Sandwich really invent the sandwich? 'Time Bandits' makes a bold historical twist
LONDON, ENGLAND: The Apple TV+ series 'Time Bandits' is a fantasy adventure that takes viewers on a wild ride through time. Led by Lisa Kudrow and newcomer Kal-El Tuck, the show follows a group of time travelers as they meet famous historical figures. Unlike the 1981 original film, the series doesn't copy the same time periods or historical cameos. Instead, it offers fresh takes and humorous twists on history. With 10 episodes, 'Time Bandits' Season 1 packs in brief history lessons with a comedic spin.
The humble sandwich, a staple of lunch boxes and picnics everywhere, has a storied past that's been passed down for centuries. But was the Earl of Sandwich, the man credited with its invention, really the mastermind behind this tasty treat? The Apple TV+ series 'Time Bandits' suggests otherwise, serving up a surprising twist on the origins of the sandwich that will leave you questioning everything you thought you knew about this beloved food.
Does The Earl of Sandwich make an appearance in 'Time Bandits'?
In 'Time Bandits' Season 1, Episode 5, Kevin and the bandits crash a party at the Earl of Sandwich's castle in Georgian England. The Earl, proud of his supposed invention, serves sandwiches as the main course.
But who was the real Earl of Sandwich? His name was John Montagu, the 4th Earl of Sandwich.
The 'Time Bandits' portrayal of the Earl as arrogant and self-absorbed might not be far off. History Extra reveals that the Earl was a gambler who didn't want to leave the card table to eat. He asked for roast beef between two slices of bread, and thus the sandwich was born - or so the story goes.
Some historians argue that the Earl copied the idea from Mediterranean dishes like pita and canapés.
Did Earl of Sandwich really invent the sandwich?
Historically, John Montagu, the 4th Earl of Sandwich, is indeed credited with requesting his valet to bring him slices of meat between two pieces of bread so he could eat while continuing to play cards without getting his fingers greasy.
However, it's unlikely that he was the first person to come up with this idea. As 'Time Bandits' suggests, the concept of placing fillings between two slices of bread has a long history that predates Montagu's supposed invention.
The story of the Earl of Sandwich inventing the sandwich is likely a myth, with different versions contradicting each other. Some say he asked for a hands-on snack, while others claim he requested it at his desk. The truth is, the concept of placing fillings between two slices of bread existed long before the Earl.
Interestingly, historian Edward Gibbon wrote about eating a sandwich in his diary in 1762, the same year the Earl supposedly invented it. It's also worth noting that the Earl's title came from the Kent town of Sandwich, a major English port at the time.
How to stream 'Time Bandits'?
'Time Bandits' is available to watch on Apple TV+ from Wednesday, July 24. If you don't have an Apple TV+ subscription, we've got you covered!
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The starting price for Apple TV+ is $9.99 a month, giving you access to all the original series and movies on the platform.
'Time Bandits' trailer