Who invented baguette?

Answer 1

Though some experts claim that August Zang (the Austrian who brought the croissant to Paris) also brought the baguette, this is not supported by any period evidence. It is unlikely in fact that the baguette was invented at all. In 18th century France, the typical round loaf began to give way to longer loaves which, in the nineteenth century, were known as "flutes" (though several other very long loaves existed then as well). So an argument can be made that the baguette began (under another name) then. However, the word "baguette" (which means "wand") was not used for a bread until 1920. Some claim that this followed a law passed the year before forbidding the bakers to work through the night. However, the baguette is mentioned before that law took effect (in October 1920) and at any rate similar breads had already existed (and can be seen in photographs) well before that. Even today, the difference between a Flute and a baguette is very vague and varies by region.