1937: SPAM is born! The first can of SPAM rolls off the production line. Originally called HORMEL Spiced Ham, the company holds a contest to create a name as distinctive as the taste. By combining the ‘sp’ from spiced and the ‘am’ from ham, the winner comes up with ‘SPAM'. Top prize: $100, and ultimate respect from me for sheer genius.

Later, in the 1990s, the word SPAM will become synonymous with internet junk mail and forum junk posting. And on that rather fitting note, I believe I will cease with today’s history lesson.