Tipping: An American Social History of GratuitiesThough the history of tipping can be traced to the Middle Ages, the practice did not become widespread until the late 19th century. Initially, Americans reviled the custom, branding it un-American and undemocratic. The opposition gradually faded and tipping became an American institution. From its beginnings in Europe to its development as a quintessentially American trait, this work provides a social history of tipping customs and how the United States became a nation of tippers. |
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abolish accept added allowed American amount argued asked August average barber believed bill called cents City claimed concluded custom December di›erent dining car dollars e›ect earnings employ employees establishments Europe expected explained fact February felt first give given gratuity guests higher hour House included income increase industry issue Italy January July June Labor later leave less London Magazine manager March minimum wage month Monthly never no-tip noted November October organized owners paid passengers patrons percent person porters Post practice railroad reason received recipients refused reported response restaurant result Review salary September servants served servers service charge sleeping Social thought tippers tips Travel union United wages waiters waitresses wanted week women workers York