The term "baguette" means "wand," "baton," or "stick" in French, reflecting the bread's long, narrow shape. The origin of the baguette as a bread type is somewhat debated, but it is generally believed to have been developed in its current form in the early 20th century in France. One popular but unconfirmed story suggests that the baguette was developed as a bread of convenience for soldiers during the Napoleonic Wars because its shape made it easy to carry. Another theory is that it was designed for the Parisian working class, as the bread could be easily transported to work without cutting, which was a service that bakeries charged for at the time. Regardless of its true origin, the baguette has become a symbol of French culture and cuisine.