Three-martini lunch facts for kids
The three-martini lunch is a phrase from the United States. It describes a long, fancy lunch that business people or lawyers used to enjoy during the workday. The idea was that these professionals had lots of time and money for such a meal. This term became well-known in the 1960s and 1970s.
What Was the Three-Martini Lunch?
The "three-martini lunch" was a way to talk about a very relaxed and expensive lunch. It was popular among certain workers in the United States. People imagined business leaders or lawyers taking a long break from work. They would go to a nice restaurant for a big meal.
This phrase suggested that these lunches were quite luxurious. It meant people spent a lot of time and money on them. It showed a time when business culture was different.
A Look Back: The 1960s and 1970s
The idea of the three-martini lunch became famous in the 1960s and 1970s. During this time, it was common for business people to have long lunches. These lunches were often used for meetings or to build relationships. It was seen as a normal part of doing business.
The phrase itself painted a picture of a certain lifestyle. It showed a time when work and social life mixed in a unique way.
Why Did It Matter? Tax Rules and Debates
The term "three-martini lunch" was also used in political discussions. These talks were about tax rules in the United States. Sometimes, businesses could deduct the cost of meals from their taxes. This meant they paid less tax on their earnings.
Some people thought this was unfair. They believed that these fancy lunches were too much of a personal luxury. They argued that taxpayers should not help pay for them. So, the phrase became a symbol in debates about tax fairness. It was about whether business meals should be tax-deductible.
