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A History of the World in 6 Glasses
336 pages, 2006
history
999 booksIn his book A History of the World in 6 Glasses , Tom Standage tells the story of civilization through six beverages: beer, wine, spirits, coffee, tea and Coca-Cola. Each drink represents a different epoch in history: from the adoption of agriculture to the birth of cities to globalization today.
Standage convincingly argues that each beverage is, in fact, a kind of technology--advancing culture and catalyzing intricate interplay between societies. After reading this enlightening book, you may never look at your favorite drink in quite the same way again!
In 'A History of the World in 6 Glasses', Tom Standage makes a compelling case that six drinks - beer, wine, spirits, coffee, tea, and cola - have played a surprisingly pivotal role in shaping human history. It's fascinating to see how these beverages have influenced everything from culture to politics.
Standage's book takes us on a journey through time, showing how the drinks we enjoy have evolved alongside society. For example, beer was a staple in the diet of the earliest civilizations, while spirits fueled the slave trade and colonization. It's a unique lens to look at our past.
Ever wondered why coffee houses were so popular in the 17th and 18th centuries? Standage explains that coffee fueled the Enlightenment, a period of intense intellectual and scientific discovery. So next time you sip your morning brew, remember you're partaking in a tradition that once sparked revolutionary ideas.
Standage also explores the role of tea in the expansion of the British Empire. The demand for this exotic beverage led to trade routes, colonies, and even wars. It's a fascinating look into how a simple drink can have such far-reaching consequences.
In the modern era, Standage argues, cola has become the ultimate symbol of globalization. It's a reminder of how these six drinks continue to shape our world in unexpected ways. So, if you're curious about the history of the world through an unusual perspective, check out 'A History of the World in 6 Glasses'.