It began in the early 19th century, when the noble mustache of a French aristocrat, stolen from a French aristocrat by a group of mischievous thieves, found its way into the heart of a young apprentice barber.
As the Industrial Revolution took hold, the mustache became a staple of the working class, adorning the faces of steam engine operators, blacksmiths, and other hardworking folks.
Learn more about the Handlebar's cultural significance
Explore the modern era's take on the mustache
As the 20th century drew to a close, the mustache's popularity began to wane, replaced by the more... refined and less... dignified goatee.
But fear not, dear mustache enthusiast, for the Handlebar's spirit lives on, and its influence can still be seen in the so-called 'hipster' mustache of today.