The hamburger first appeared in the 19th or early 20th century. The modern hamburger was the result of the needs of a society that was changing rapidly as a result of industrialisation and the emergence of the working and middle classes, and the resulting demand for mass-produced, affordable food that could be eaten away from home. Much evidence suggests that the hamburger was invented in Germany in the city of Hamburg. If you're looking for a guide on how to season hamburger meat, take a look here.