In 1886, Atlanta pharmacist Dr. John Pemberton created a medicinal tonic to treat headaches and fatigue. It was originally called Pemberton’s French Wine Coca, made with wine, coca leaf extract (yes, the one with cocaine), and caffeine-rich kola nut.

When the temperance movement took aim at alcohol, Pemberton swapped the wine for sugar syrup and rebranded it as Coca-Cola—named after its two key ingredients. It debuted at Jacob’s Pharmacy, mixed with carbonated water and served at the soda fountain.

The name and iconic script logo came from Pemberton’s bookkeeper, Frank Robinson. Though Pemberton wouldn’t live to see its global success, businessman Asa Candler later acquired full control and turned Coca-Cola into a worldwide brand.

Only a few people on Earth know the full Coca-Cola recipe—and they’re not allowed to travel together. The formula, dubbed “Merchandise 7X,” is kept locked in a vault in Atlanta. Whether it’s true or just clever marketing, the mystery keeps the legend fizzing.

Coca-Cola wasn’t the only soda with a surprising past - 7-Up once contained lithium a mood-stabilizing drug. Learn more here.