#1: Salary — Why Romans Were Paid in Salt episode artwork

EPISODE · Apr 6, 2026 · 2 MIN

#1: Salary — Why Romans Were Paid in Salt

from The Why of Words

Explore the popular myth that Roman soldiers were paid in salt, giving us the word 'salary' from Latin salarium. Modern scholars cast doubt on this origin story, revealing the truth behind one of history's most memorable etymologies.---More from Sticky Note Podcasts:Deep in the Stacks (daily jazz vinyl) | Required Drinking (cocktail history) | Photography Knowledge (daily photo tips)stickynotepodcasts.com

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#1: Salary — Why Romans Were Paid in Salt

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This episode was published on April 6, 2026.

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Explore the popular myth that Roman soldiers were paid in salt, giving us the word 'salary' from Latin salarium. Modern scholars cast doubt on this origin story, revealing the truth behind one of history's most memorable etymologies.---More from...

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