1. The Smoked Fish Theory:
* This is the most commonly accepted theory. In the 19th century, red herrings (smoked fish) were used during fox hunts to confuse and mislead the hounds. The strong scent of the herring would distract them from the fox's scent, leading them off the trail.
2. The Fish Market Theory:
* Another theory suggests that red herrings were used to distract fish buyers in the market. The strong smell of the fish would mask the quality of other, less desirable fish, leading buyers to make mistakes.
3. The Fish Curing Theory:
* Some believe the term stems from the process of curing herring. The fish were often smoked with red dye, which could mislead someone into thinking they were a different type of fish.
4. The Legal Theory:
* This theory posits that the term comes from legal cases where evidence was presented to confuse the jury, much like a red herring would confuse the hounds.
5. The Folklore Theory:
* In some folklore traditions, the red herring was associated with witchcraft and deception. It was believed to possess magical powers and could be used to confuse and mislead people.
The Bottom Line:
While the exact origin of the term "red herring" is uncertain, the smoked fish theory is the most widely accepted explanation. It effectively describes how the term is used today: to signify something intended to divert attention away from the real issue or truth.