Baby Ruth Bars Are Named After What President’s Daughter

The Baby Ruth bar is one of America’s most beloved candy bars, known for its delicious combination of peanuts, caramel, nougat, and chocolate. But have you ever wondered how it got its name? Contrary to popular belief, the candy bar is not named after the famous baseball player Babe Ruth, but after a different historical figure – President Grover Cleveland’s daughter, Ruth Cleveland.

Ruth Cleveland was born on October 3, 1891, during her father’s first term as the 22nd President of the United States. She quickly became a media sensation, with newspapers and magazines regularly publishing stories and pictures of the president’s daughter. Her popularity soared, and she became an icon of her time.

In 1921, the Curtiss Candy Company introduced a new candy bar that they named “Baby Ruth.” Many people assumed it was named after the legendary baseball player George Herman “Babe” Ruth, who was at the height of his career. However, the company insisted that the candy was named after President Cleveland’s daughter, Ruth Cleveland, who unfortunately passed away in 1904 at the age of 12.

The timing of the candy bar’s release and the similarities between the names “Baby Ruth” and “Babe Ruth” led to speculation that the candy company was trying to capitalize on the baseball player’s fame. Babe Ruth himself even endorsed the candy bar, further fueling the confusion. However, the company maintained that the candy was named after Ruth Cleveland.

In 1931, the Curtiss Candy Company faced a legal challenge from the Ruth estate, claiming that the candy bar was using the Ruth name for commercial purposes without permission. The court ruled in favor of the candy company, stating that the name “Baby Ruth” had become associated with the candy bar and was not a reference to Babe Ruth.

Despite the court ruling, the controversy surrounding the candy bar’s name continued, with many people still believing it was named after the baseball player. To this day, the true origins of the name remain a subject of debate and speculation.

FAQs:

1. Was the Baby Ruth candy bar really named after Babe Ruth?
No, the candy bar was named after President Grover Cleveland’s daughter, Ruth Cleveland.

2. When was Ruth Cleveland born?
Ruth Cleveland was born on October 3, 1891.

3. When did Ruth Cleveland pass away?
Ruth Cleveland passed away in 1904 at the age of 12.

4. Did Babe Ruth endorse the Baby Ruth candy bar?
Yes, Babe Ruth endorsed the candy bar, further fueling the confusion surrounding its name.

5. Why did the Curtiss Candy Company name the candy bar “Baby Ruth”?
The company claimed it was named after President Cleveland’s daughter, Ruth Cleveland.

6. Did the Ruth estate challenge the candy bar’s name in court?
Yes, the Ruth estate filed a legal challenge, but the court ruled in favor of the candy company.

7. How did the confusion between Babe Ruth and Baby Ruth arise?
The timing of the candy bar’s release and the similarities between the names led to speculation.

8. Is the true origin of the candy bar’s name still debated today?
Yes, many people still debate and speculate about the true origins of the name.

9. What are the ingredients of a Baby Ruth candy bar?
A Baby Ruth candy bar typically contains peanuts, caramel, nougat, and chocolate.