Abstract:
1. How did pizza evolve from an ethnic specialty to a mainstream North American food staple?
2. What role did Canadian cultural and economic factors play in shaping unique regional pizza traditions?
3. How does pizza’s evolution reflect broader patterns of cultural hybridization in North American foodways?
1. **Cultural Hybridization Theory** (Burke, 2009)
– Analysis of how pizza adapted to local tastes while maintaining cultural authenticity
– Examination of fusion varieties unique to Canadian regions
2. **Food Democracy Framework** (Lang, 2005)
– Investigation of pizza’s role in democratizing ethnic cuisine
– Analysis of accessibility and affordability factors
3. **Culinary Capital Theory** (Naccarato & LeBesco, 2012)
– Examination of pizza’s transition from working-class food to artisanal cuisine
– Analysis of social status markers in pizza consumption
### Mixed Methods Approach:
1. **Historical Analysis**
– Archival research of Canadian newspaper advertisements (1950-2024)
– Restaurant menu collections from major Canadian cities
– Immigration records and ethnic business directories.