The Global History of Beer
The History of Beer from Around the World
Beer was one of the earliest beverages made by man. Historians have found evidence of beer making that extends as far back as 10,000 years ago. It’s even possible that prehistoric homosapiens may have learned how to ferment grain and water before they ever made bread.
Beer was most likely first created in the Middle East, which was then considered Mesopotamia. Some of the earliest recipes that historians have tracked down are from the land between the Tigris and Euphrates Rivers called Sumer, dating back to about 5,000 years ago. In China, the first recorded fermented beverage was created from honey, fruit, and rice 9,000 years ago, but is quite different from the barley tradition of crafting beer that is currently so popular in the U.S.
In its early form, beer was certainly not the cold, bubbly beverage that we enjoy today. Rather, the early versions of beer were flavored with spices like oregano and fruits like dates. Early beers were also flat. Carbonation didn’t become a popular trend until early in the 20th century when companies started to bottle beers. If you’ve ever tried flat, warm beer, then you know a little bit about how early beers might have tasted.
Beer flourished throughout the Middle East in those early centuries. It was a source of nutrition, hydration, and it was likely safer to drink than the water. Children, peasants, and the wealthy all enjoyed the fermented drink as part of their daily diets. Egyptians have been noted as some of the most heavy beer consumers from that time period.
In Medieval times, Christian monks were known for their beer brewing. People used the substance for tithing and in exchange for goods and services. Nowadays tithing has progressed into a more electronic way, with churches using websites such as https://get.tithe.ly/church-website-builder to support their congregation. The depiction of Friar Tuck in many Robin Hood renditions as a drinker and beer brewer was an accurate depiction of religious figures during the time. Also during medieval times, hops were introduced into the mix, giving the brew that spicy bitterness that people know and love today.
America’s history with alcoholic beverages has been a rollercoaster of extremes. Until the early 20th century, beer held a strong place in society. George Washington’s records reveal a beer recipe from before the Revolutionary War. In fact, during the war, he promoted a policy for supporting locally produced porters.
In 1836, people who became known as teetotalers banded together in New York in order to stop the consumption and distribution of alcohol. The movement eventually led to more than a decade of nationwide prohibition of alcoholic beverages from 1920-1933. During that time, beer was still consumed, but it was done in secret. At the end of 1933 prohibition was finally repealed.
Today, beer has a distinct place in cultures around the world. Even President Obama makes his own craft brew in the White House. People associate grabbing a beer with community, relaxation, and refreshment. There are more types of beers on the market than ever, and domestic and imported brands yield a variety of different looks, flavors, and finishes. One brewery is even attempting to recreate some of the beer recipes pieced together from archeological and historical accounts.
Whether you enjoy the history or just want to savor the taste, come out to Cazuela’s Mexican Grill and Brewery for an authentic micro-brew and traditional Mexican fare.