The history of TV dinners dates back to the mid-20th century, and they have become an iconic part of American food culture. Here's a brief overview of the history of TV dinners:

1. Invention of the TV Dinner: The TV dinner concept was first introduced by the American food company Swanson in 1953. The story goes that Swanson had a surplus of frozen turkeys after Thanksgiving and needed to find a way to sell them. Inspired by compartmentalized aluminum trays used for serving meals on airplanes, they developed the idea of pre-packaging a complete meal in a single tray.

2. Introduction of the TV Dinner: On September 10, 1953, Swanson introduced the first TV dinner, called the "TV Brand Frozen Dinner." Each meal consisted of turkey, cornbread dressing, peas, and sweet potatoes, packaged in a segmented aluminum tray. It was designed to be heated in the oven and ready to eat in about 25 minutes.

3. Popularity and Evolution: The TV dinner quickly gained popularity, especially among busy families and individuals who wanted a convenient and quick meal option. Over the years, Swanson and other food companies expanded their TV dinner offerings to include a variety of meals, such as fried chicken, meatloaf, Salisbury steak, and spaghetti.

4. Changes in Packaging: In the 1960s and 1970s, aluminum trays were replaced with microwave-safe plastic trays, making it easier to heat the meals. The introduction of microwave ovens in households further contributed to the convenience of TV dinners.

5. Diversification and Healthier Options: In response to changing consumer preferences and demands for healthier food options, TV dinners started to offer a wider variety of meals, including vegetarian, low-calorie, and ethnic cuisines. Companies began focusing on using higher-quality ingredients and reducing preservatives and artificial additives.

6. Expansion of the Market: TV dinners expanded beyond the United States, gaining popularity in other countries as well. Different regions and cultures adapted the concept, creating their own versions of pre-packaged, ready-to-eat meals.

7. Contemporary TV Dinners: Today, TV dinners continue to be a convenient meal option for many people. With advancements in food technology, there are now a variety of choices, including organic, gluten-free, and plant-based options. Additionally, many companies have focused on improving the taste, quality, and nutritional value of TV dinners.

While the term "TV dinner" was initially coined because people often ate these meals while watching television, they are now enjoyed in various settings, including as quick meals at home or in the workplace.