The Story of Chopsticks

Chopsticks are used every day in China. Now I'd like to take this opportunity to share their interesting history with you.  I think you'll agree that even an ordinary item used in daily life can have a fascinating story.Although chopsticks originated in China, they are widely used in many Asian countries. The first chopsticks were made from bone and jade.In the Spring and Autumn period, copper and iron chopsticks came into being.  In ancient times, the rich used jade or gold chopsticks to display their wealth.  Many kings and emperors used silver chopsticks to see if their food had been poisoned. Chopsticks are traditionally placed in brides' dowries,because "chopsticks" in Chinese is pronounced "kuaizi", which sounds like "get a son soon." Many foreign friends try to use chopsticks when they visit China. Even the former president of the United States Richard Nixon, used chopsticks at the welcoming banquet held in his honor.  As soon as he left his table, a foreign diplomat grabbed his chopsticks as a historical souvenir.  Remember to tell this interesting story the next time you eat with foreign friends and show off your knowledge.