When were breakfast trays first invented?

There's no definitive answer to when breakfast trays were *first invented*. Here's why:

* Simple concept, ancient origins: The basic idea of a tray to carry food is very old. Ancient civilizations used trays made from materials like wood, clay, and stone.

* Evolution over time: The concept likely evolved slowly, with trays becoming more specialized for specific purposes, including serving breakfast.

* No clear documentation: There's no single inventor documented as creating the "first" breakfast tray.

Here's what we *can* say:

* Early versions: Trays similar to what we'd recognize today probably emerged in the 18th or 19th century as household furnishings became more elaborate.

* Industrialization: Mass production in the late 19th and 20th centuries made trays more common and affordable.

* Hotels and hospitals: The use of breakfast trays in these settings increased in the 20th century, further popularizing them.

So, while a specific invention date is elusive, breakfast trays have a long and interesting history, reflecting evolving societal customs and the need for convenient food service.