Archeological evidence suggests, the Indigenous peoples in what is now Mexico cultivated various forms of corn (maize), including the type that would eventually become popcorn. Corn had cultural significance for them. It was used in various ceremonies and rituals, reflecting its importance beyond simply being a practical staple in their diets.

In the late 15th to early 16th centuries (1400s - 1500s) European explorers, including Christopher Columbus encountered popcorn during their travels. Columbus noted that Native Americans used popcorn to decorate ceremonial headdresses and also corsages which they sold to his sailors.

In the early 1600s, French explorers in the American Great Lakes region reported that the Native American Iroquois' made popcorn with heated sand inside covered pottery. In addition to this naturally being a staple in their diet, they made soup and beer with popcorn as well.

American colonists embraced popcorn as a snack. Popcorn consumption spread, and it became a common treat at fairs and carnivals.

In 1885, a Chicago Illinois candy store owner named Charles Cretors invented the first commercial popcorn machine. The machine was steam powered and had agitator blades to stir the popcorn while it cooked in oil and seasonings.

The electrical powered popcorn machine was invented in 1925. Popcorn gained popularity as an affordable snack throughout the Great Depression and WWII (1930s - 1940s). It was featured prominently in theaters and sold by street vendors.

In 1945 American physicist and inventor Percy Spencer discovered the existence of electromagnetic radiation, which resulted in the invention of the first microwave oven. In 1947 he filed a US Patent detailing the use of microwaves to make popcorn. (show image below)

Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, microwaves became affordable for home use and gained widespread popularity. Companies such as Pillsbury, ACT I/II and General Mills released their own versions of microwavable popcorn bags enjoyed by the masses. During this period of time the hot air popper also enjoyed widespread adoption in homes.