Did You Know? Salt was once worth its weight in gold

Salt is a typical household commodity that is affordable and readily available in today’s environment. However, there once was a period when this commonplace material was so valuable that it was used as money. The English word “salary” originates from the historical significance of salt, which is profoundly ingrained in language, commerce, and society.

The History of Salt as Money

The significance of salt comes from its vital role in food preservation, which was important in the days before refrigeration. As civilisations all around the world realised how important it was, it soon turned into a commodity that could be traded.

In ancient Rome, soldiers were sometimes paid in salt or given an allowance to purchase it. This payment was known as “salarium,” from the Latin word “sal,” meaning salt. Over time, this term evolved into “salary,” the word we use today to describe regular payment for work. The practice highlights the vital role salt played in sustaining armies, as well as its broader significance in daily life.

Salt in Global Trade: A Universal Currency

Salt was not only valuable in Rome. Across Africa, the Middle East, and Asia, salt became a cornerstone of trade, often exchanged for gold or other precious goods. The ancient city of Timbuktu, a hub of the trans-Saharan trade routes, saw caravans transporting blocks of salt alongside gold, ivory, and spices. In some African regions, salt was so prized that it was used directly as a form of currency, often referred to as “white gold.”

Similarly, in medieval Europe, salt was crucial in the preservation of food, especially meat and fish. Its scarcity in certain areas made it a highly sought-after commodity. This scarcity drove the establishment of trade routes, the construction of roads, and even the founding of cities near salt sources. The wealth generated from salt trade contributed to the power and influence of many European states.

Salt’s Role in Language and Culture

The significance of salt extended beyond commerce into language and culture. The phrase “worth one’s salt” originated from the practice of paying soldiers with salt, implying that someone who was “worth their salt” was valuable or competent. Salt also became a symbol of purity, preservation, and loyalty in various cultures, often used in religious rituals and ceremonies.

The expression “salt of the earth,” derived from the Bible, refers to individuals who are considered virtuous and integral to their community, further emphasizing salt’s esteemed place in society.

The Decline of Salt as Currency

As global trade expanded and new preservation methods were developed, the role of salt as a currency diminished. The advent of refrigeration, in particular, reduced the need for salt in food preservation, making it less valuable as a commodity. However, the legacy of salt remains, not only in the word “salary” but also in the lasting impact it had on the development of economies and societies worldwide.

Conclusion: A Legacy Preserved in Language

Salt’s journey from a precious commodity to a commonplace seasoning is a testament to its historical importance. Its influence on language, economy, and culture underscores a time when this simple mineral was one of the world’s most valuable resources. The next time you sprinkle salt on your meal, remember that you are handling a substance that once had the power to build empires, sustain armies, and even shape the words we use today.