The World in 6 Glasses

I just finished reading a book by Tom Standage called A History of the World in 6 Glasses. It talks about the varying affects beer, wine, spirits, coffee, tea, and carbonated drinks (i.e. coca-cola) have had on civilizations from pre-historical times and how these drinks had been so integral to the development of the society in social, economic, and political ways. Its worthwhile noting that it would seem the reason these drinks rose in popularity is the effect they have on humans. Alcohol and caffeine, whose effects were misunderstood for millennia, were mystical magical ingredients that drew in the priestly or ruling classes and eventually trickled down to the masses as they became cheaper and easier to distribute.

Interesting things I learned:

• Coca-cola's influence spread during WWII when the followed the troops overseas setting up bottling plants so every American troop could have a cold drink. After the war, they had operations on every continent (cept Antarctica) and the drink became synonymous with America and democracy.
• Beer and bread are very similar. One is baked and one is drank. Both became more prevalent with the move away from hunter gatherer to an agrarian lifestyle and the beginnings of communal civilization.
• The Greeks and Romans diluted wine with water because drinking pure wine could kill a man.
  
• Women were not allowed in industrial revolution era British coffee houses. But they were allowed in tea houses. Tea was so expensive, upper class ladies would not send servants to get it. They would go themselves with a small box with a lock on the front which would stop anyone in the household from stealing.

I enjoy reading these types of historical books. Too much of history is looked at through the lens of people and dates and not enough about needs and causes. So many wars have been fought over resources. From basic needs like water access to luxury goods. like tea or gold. I find it interesting, and maybe a little more accessible when the lens shifts to a theme I know.
With that in mind, I would also recommend a book called Salt by Mark Kurlansky. You guessed it, a history of the world in terms of salt. Fascinating stuff.