what is the purpose or origin of the neck tie?

Question

it's uncomfortable and serves no purpose other than easthetics. i wanna know why it became an integral part of our wardrobe.

Answer 1

Many events in the history of mankind eventually fade into oblivion, but others, leave their indelible marks for the entire world to see. More than 350 years ago, the Croats initiated one such influential occurrence. Although started in the 17th century in a small region on the Adriatic coast, the consequences of this event are still very much evident the world over. 600 million people now wear the ubiquitous symbol of Croatia around their necks, close to their hearts.

Believe it or not Croatia is the mother country of the modern necktie but archaeological evidence of the use of neckties goes back to the Chinese and the Romans almost two millenniums back.

China's First emperor.

The earliest known version of the necktie has been found in the massive mausoleum of China's first emperor, Shih Huang Ti, who was buried in 210 B.C. Desperately afraid of death, the emperor wanted to slaughter an entire to army to accompany him into the next world. His advisers ultimately persuaded him to take life-size replicas of the soldiers instead.

The result is one of the marvels of the ancient world. Unearthed in 1974 near the ancient capital city of Xian, the tomb contained an astonishing 7,500 life-size terracotta replicas of Shih Huang Ti's famed fighting force. Legions of officers, soldiers, archers and horsemen, all carved in meticulous detail, guard the emperor's sarcophagus. The armor, uniforms, hair, and facial expressions of the soldiers are reproduced in exquisite detail. Each figure is different - except in one respect: all wear neck cloths.

An ancient mystery

Historians say other records indicate the Chinese did not wear ties, so why the emperor's guards wore carefully wrapped silk cloths remains a mystery. Since silk was a great luxury, the cloths could indicate the ultimate honor Shih Huang Ti bestowed on his soldiers; they were trusted enough to guard him until the end of time.

For more on the origin of the neck tie go to http://www.twilightbridge.com/hobbies/festivals/father/necktie.htm

I believe the modern purpose of the neck tie is simply to hide the buttons on a dress shirt and to add some flare to your outfit. Yes they suck but they do look nice =)

Answer 2

This Site Might Help You.

RE:
what is the purpose or origin of the neck tie?
it's uncomfortable and serves no purpose other than easthetics. i wanna know why it became an integral part of our wardrobe.

Answer 3

To keep your neck covered and to add some style. But I would agree with the strangulation answer too.

Answer 4

i don't know but i'm not a fan either. i have always thought it was to cover the buttons of a button down shirt.... i don't know why that is so important besides for a certain look.... i think they are becoming less and less common if that makes you feel better at all.

Answer 5

easy strangulation

Answer 6

because it is formal, duh.. and appropriate for certain occasions.