1898: Pepsi-Cola is Named

Although created in 1893 by Caleb Bradham and under the name “Brad’s Drink,” it was renamed “Pepsi-Cola” on this day in 1898. The name comes from the root of the word “dyspepsia” and the kola nuts that were used in the recipe. Bradham’s goal was to create a fountain drink that would aid in digestion and boost energy. Up until 1903, Bradham bottled his Pepsi-Cola from his drugstore before moving operations to rented a warehouse. Marketed as “delicious and healthful,” Pepsi was first sold in six-ounce bottles but in 1936, it became available in 12-ounce bottles which rivaled Coca-Cola which was only available in 6.5 ounce bottles but sold at the same price. During the 1940’s, the soda began to target its marketing to African Americans believing that they were an untapped market. Instead of portraying them in a stereotypical manner, these ads treated African Americans with respect. However, some feared that the ads would drive away white Americans. Never settling for being the #2 selling cola, Pepsi introduced The Pepsi Challenge in 1975 encouraging people to do blind taste tests of Coke and Pepsi to see which cola they preferred.