John Montagu, the 4th Earl of Sandwich, was an 18th-century English nobleman known for popularizing the sandwich. Born in 1718, he was a statesman and a member of the House of Lords. His name became synonymous with the food item when he reportedly ordered meat served between two slices of bread, allowing him to eat while continuing to play cards. The creation of the sandwich is often attributed to Montagu's desire for a convenient meal that wouldn't interrupt his gaming sessions. This innovation quickly gained popularity, leading to the widespread adoption of the term and the food itself in various forms around the world.