Where did jacket potatoes originate?

The origin of the jacket potato is a bit of a mystery, but it's likely a combination of cultural influences and a practical solution to food scarcity:

* Ireland: Many believe the "spud" or "tattie" as it's affectionately called in Ireland, originates there. The potato was a staple food in Ireland, especially during times of famine. Baking potatoes in their skins was a simple and efficient way to cook them, making them a common meal.

* North America: The Native American tribes of North America had been cultivating and consuming potatoes long before European settlers arrived. They often cooked potatoes in the ashes of a fire, giving them a smoky flavor and a crispy exterior.

* Britain: The jacket potato as we know it today, with various toppings, is thought to have become popular in Britain in the 1970s. This was possibly influenced by the availability of pre-packed potatoes and a growing interest in more convenient and inexpensive meals.

Essentially, while the exact origin remains unclear, the concept of baking potatoes in their skins existed in various parts of the world, and the "jacket potato" as a popular food item likely evolved through a combination of cultural influences and practical necessities.