How come flea markets are called Flea Markets? where did they get that name?

Answer 1

The first theory, and the one most popular on the Internet, proposes that the term is a direct translation of the French Marché aux Puces, a large, outdoor bazaar in Paris. This original market earned its name from the critter-infested goods it was rumored to sell.

The second theory alleges that the term was coined at a time when the slums and alleys of Paris were demolished and replaced by new construction. The dealers in second-hand goods who lived and worked in these old neighborhoods were forced to flee. The merchants' new gathering place was referred to as the "flee market," which later became "flea market."

The final theory associates the term with New York City's 18th century Fly Market. Apparently, the Dutch name for the market was vlie, which means valley but is pronounced "flea."

So there you have it, three flea markets for the price of one.

Answer 2

i think it might of been a really long time back, when there was no help from the government, soup kitchens and all that. when people had to buy there clothes from second hand markets, and they might of been third hand clothes,,read lots of books about the poor people of england, just novels, but people walked around in bare feet,, and if you were lucky to have enough money you got you clothes in a flea market,, any type of junk was bought and altered to suit your needs,

Answer 3

HM..GUD QUESTION.........