Analysis Of The Book Section One Beer - 1278 Words

Section one Beer: The book begins by informing us about the history of beer and of cereal grains, the start of farming, the beginning migrations, and the building of river valley societies in Egypt and Mesopotamia. He says beer was a discovery not an invention, and how it was first used to show the social classes and to show money and power. As urban water became more polluted, beer also became a must to stay hydrated. Beer became part of civilization and was the beverage of choice of a new born baby to an elderly man. Section two Wine:Wine is introduced through a discussion of early Greek and Roman society. Wine was initially associated with social class because of its rarity and showed power and money. As it became more a part of greek†¦show more content†¦Sailors drank grog (watered-down rum), which helped to alleviate scurvy. Standage argues that rum was the first globalized drink of oppression. Its popularity in the colonies, where there were few other alcoholic beverage choices, led to distilling in New England. This, he argues, began the trade wars which resulted in the molasses act, the sugar act, the boycotts of imports, and a refusal to pay taxes without representation. Indeed, he wonders whether it was rum rather than tea that started the American Revolution. He also discusses the impact of the whiskey rebellion. The French fur traders use of brandy, the British use of rum, and the Spanish use of pulque all point to how spirits were used to conquer territory in the Americas. Sp irits became associated not only with slavery, but also with the exploitation and subjugation of indigenous peoples on five continents as colonies and mercantilist relationships were formed. Through a look at spirits, students can better understand the spread of technology, exploration, the use of Arab technology, the spread of disease, slavery, trade relationships, revolution, and the subjugation of indigenous peoples. Section four Coffee: Standage presents the history of coffee from its origins in the Arab regions in Europe, addressing the initial controversy that the beverage generated in both locations. As a new and safe alternative to alcoholic drinks and water, some argued that it