The first known gift baskets date back to Biblical times, when there were several memorable "gift baskets." One of the more significant gifts from this time, the story of Moses depicts baby Moses hidden in a basket in the rushes. The Egyptian royal family finds the basket and the gift contained inside. Additionally, the three wise men bring baskets of gifts after the birth of Jesus. Regardless of religious preference, these stories indicate a historical predecessor to our "gift baskets."

Ancient Roman history includes many precursors to our current gift baskets. Gift giving is often traced back to the Roman festivals of Saturnalia and Kalends, both of which were known for generous gift giving. Often thought to be a harbinger to Christmas gifts, the festival of Saturnalia encouraged gifts of food and candles to friends and family.

Slightly more politically motivated, gift giving played an important role in the middle ages. As payment for their allegiance and support, kings frequently received baskets and bags filled with decadent gifts, such as sliver, gold and jewels. Lavish gifts of food and valuable items were a common method of gaining favor or displaying power and wealth. Baskets were used to transport sumptuous gifts of food for the impressive medieval feasts. An important component of today's Christmas celebrations, the middle ages also saw the beginning of the gift giving custom that carries through to today, including "gift" baskets of food, cakes and sweets.

As the Renaissance progressed, gift giving became an even more important aspect of culture. The giving of gifts, including decadent food items, manuscripts and jewels, was expected and reciprocated in a very precise manner. Important enough to cement one's social standing with royalty or damage one's social status permanently, these extravagant "gift" baskets represented power, position and future growth.

Colonial times saw a simpler time, where gift baskets took on a more utilitarian role. Our first American gift baskets can be traced back to our arrival from Europe. The Native Americans greeted colonists with baskets of locally grown food. Crafted of simple materials or wooden boxes, colonial gift baskets became a way to share a plentiful supply of goods with others. Baskets of local fruit and vegetables were shared with others, while gifts of pies and sweets became more common for the holidays. In the nineteenth century, the spread of the railway system allowed individuals to send gift baskets farther distances. These baskets of goodies were the true precursors to today's more elaborate gift baskets.

There are myriad examples of gift baskets as part of our gift-giving history. Historically, almost all cultures have some instance of gift giving where, in one form or another, gift baskets played an important role in both the culture and the holidays.

Today, gift baskets are available in any form and style, encouraging creativity and more personalized gift giving. Whether sent long distances or hand delivered to someone next door, our gift baskets today have moved beyond just holidays or utilitarian purposes. They fill a need to connect with others for any number of reasons in any number of unique ways.