Introduction: Why Guinea Pig?

The guinea pig, or Cavia porcellus, is a small domesticated rodent that has become a popular household pet. However, the origin of the name “guinea pig” is a topic of much debate among historians and etymologists. While the animal is neither from Guinea nor a type of pig, its name has persisted for centuries. In this article, we will explore the early history of guinea pigs and investigate the origins of their name.

The Early History of Guinea Pigs

Guinea pigs are native to South America, specifically the Andean region. They were first domesticated by the indigenous people of Peru over 7,000 years ago and were used for both food and religious ceremonies. The Inca civilization viewed guinea pigs as sacred animals and even mummified them alongside their human counterparts. It is believed that guinea pigs were brought to Europe by Spanish explorers in the 16th century, where they quickly gained popularity as exotic pets.

Guinea Pigs in Europe

Guinea pigs were first introduced to Europe in the mid-1500s, where they were initially kept as curiosities in the households of wealthy families. The first written records of guinea pigs in Europe come from Swiss naturalist Conrad Gessner, who described the animals in his book “Historia Animalium” in 1551. Soon after, guinea pigs became popular pets among European nobility, and breeding programs were established to produce unique coat colors and patterns.

The Role of Spanish Explorers

The introduction of guinea pigs to Europe can be traced back to Spanish explorers who brought them back from South America. The exact reason why they were named “guinea pigs” is unclear, but some theories suggest that it was due to a resemblance to wild pigs found in Guinea, a region in West Africa. Others speculate that the animals were given this name because they were sold for a guinea, a type of British coin that was worth one pound and one shilling. Regardless of the reason, the name “guinea pig” quickly caught on and has been used ever since.

Theories on the Origin of the Name

As previously mentioned, there are several theories on why guinea pigs were given their unusual name. Some scholars believe that the name “guinea” comes from the Guinea region in West Africa, where European traders first encountered the animals. Others suggest that the name was derived from the word “Guiana,” a term used to describe the region of South America where guinea pigs were first domesticated. The “pig” part of the name is thought to be due to their plump, round bodies and slightly snout-like noses.

The “Pig” Connection

While guinea pigs are not related to pigs in any way, their name does have some similarities to that of their farmyard counterparts. The term “pig” was commonly used in the 16th century to describe small, domesticated animals, regardless of their actual species. Additionally, guinea pigs do share some physical characteristics with pigs, such as their stocky bodies and waddling gait.

The “Guinea” Connection

The origin of the word “guinea” is a topic of much debate, with several different theories on its etymology. Some believe that it comes from the Berber word “aginaw,” which means “black people,” and was used by European traders to describe the West African coast. Others suggest that it was named after the Guinea region in West Africa, where European traders first encountered the animals. Regardless of its origin, the word “guinea” was commonly used in the 16th century to describe exotic or foreign items, making it a fitting name for a South American rodent.

Guinea Pigs in Popular Culture

While guinea pigs are primarily kept as pets, they have also made appearances in popular culture. In the 1970s, the children’s book “Guinea Pig in the Garage” by Ben M. Baglio introduced a new generation to these lovable rodents. In recent years, guinea pigs have also become popular subjects in internet memes and viral videos.

Guinea Pigs as Pets

Today, guinea pigs are a popular household pet due to their gentle nature and low-maintenance care requirements. They are social animals and enjoy the company of other guinea pigs, making them a great choice for families with children. Guinea pigs are also relatively long-lived for a small animal, with an average lifespan of 5-7 years.

The Evolution of the Guinea Pig Name

Over the centuries, the name “guinea pig” has undergone several changes. In the 16th century, the animal was initially referred to as the “Peruvian pig” in English. The term “guinea pig” first appeared in writing in 1664, and by the 19th century, it had become the standard name for the animal. Today, guinea pigs are also known by other names, such as “cavy” and “cuy” in South America.

Conclusion: What’s in a Name?

The origins of the guinea pig name may never be fully understood, but its history provides a fascinating glimpse into the cultural exchanges that occurred during the Age of Exploration. Despite the unusual name, guinea pigs have become beloved pets around the world, known for their cheerful personalities and adorable squeaks. Whether you call them guinea pigs, cavies, or simply “piggies,” these little rodents have captured the hearts of millions.

References and Further Reading

• “Guinea Pig.” Encyclopædia Britannica. Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc., n.d. Web. 02 Oct. 2021.
• “Guinea Pigs.” RSPCA. N.p., n.d. Web. 02 Oct. 2021.
• “Guinea Pigs (Cavia Porcellus).” The Humane Society of the United States. N.p., n.d. Web. 02 Oct. 2021.
• “Where Did the Name ‘Guinea Pig’ Come From?” BBC News. BBC, 27 Oct. 2014. Web. 02 Oct. 2021.
• “Why Are Guinea Pigs Called Guinea Pigs?” Mental Floss. N.p., 23 Aug. 2016. Web. 02 Oct. 2021.