A History of the World in 6 Glasses by Tom Standage
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Summary
Throughout human history, certain drinks have done much more than just quench thirst. As Tom Standage relates with authority and charm, six of them have had a surprisingly pervasive influence on the course of history, becoming the defining drink during a pivotal historical period.
This book offers a captivating perspective on history. It's mind-blowing to witness the significant influence these six drinks had on shaping the course of human history.
The premise of describing the history of the world through the lens of six drinks may have seemed peculiar, but it turned out to be quite effective. The author takes us on a journey, starting with beer and progressing through wine, spirits, coffee, tea, and coke, skillfully interweaving them into the tapestry of human civilization.
Throughout the book, I discovered many fascinating facts that I hadn't known before. For instance, I was surprised to learn that beer has been a part of our history since ancient times. Additionally, I was thoroughly entertained by the countless anecdotes about these beverages. From how lime juice improved the health of the British navy by preventing scurvy, to the evolution of coffee houses in London into institutions like the Stock Exchange and Lloyds of London, and even how coke was packaged like vodka in transparent form during the Soviet era to appease the Russian communists.
The narrator did a commendable job, although there was one slight annoyance. He had a tendency to rush the chapter titles, making it easy to miss the start of a new chapter. However, aside from this small flaw, this audiobook was one of the most enjoyable ones I've listened to.
This book presents a fascinating outlook on history, exploring the impact of six beverages: beer, wine, spirits, coffee, tea, and cola. It's mind-blowing to uncover how these drinks have shaped the course of civilization. They served as forms of currency and sparked conflicts between nations (think Boston Tea Party and Opium Wars). The author impressively delves into extensive research, unveiling pertinent facts and elucidating the varying popularity of these drinks across different regions. For example, we discover why tea holds a special place in the hearts of the English, while cola reigns supreme in America. Additionally, I gained knowledge about the origins of coffee in the Arab world, which eventually spread to countries like Brazil, now the largest producer of coffee.
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