Ancient Origins
The earliest birthday celebrations occurred in ancient Egypt and Greece around 3,000 years ago. However, these celebrations were not for ordinary people. Egyptians marked the days when pharaohs were crowned, treating these as the pharaoh's true birth into power and godhood. Greeks also celebrated birthdays of their gods and important leaders, not everyday citizens.
Birthday Cakes and Candles
The ancient Greeks are credited with starting the birthday cake tradition. They baked round cakes made from flour and honey to offer to Artemis, the goddess of the moon, on her birthday celebration each month. They placed candles on these cakes because the flickering flames were thought to represent the moon and carry prayers and wishes up to the gods. This practice symbolized gratitude and hope.
Medieval and Medieval Religious Period
During the Middle Ages in Europe, birthday celebrations became less common, partly due to Christian beliefs that focused more on saints' feast days than individual birthdays. However, in some German cultures, children's birthday celebrations slowly emerged. By the 1600s, the German tradition of Kinderfest, a birthday celebration for children, became more established and celebrated with cakes and candles.
Modern Birthday Traditions
Birthday celebrations for common people became popular during the 1800s and 1900s in Europe and America, as wealthier families adopted and spread the tradition. As industrialization made cakes, decorations, and candles more affordable and accessible, birthday parties became something families of all social classes could enjoy. The Victorian era especially popularized elaborate birthday celebrations.
Global Spread
Birthday celebration traditions have continued to spread worldwide, adapting to different cultures and customs. While the basic elements like cakes, candles, and gathering with loved ones remain common, different cultures have added their own unique traditions and foods to mark the occasion. 
Answer