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The Fascinating History of Tea
There are very few beverages that have the universal appeal that tea does – whether it is sipping through the busy streets of London or a quiet garden in Kyoto. Very often, tea is looked at as a companion by many people in this modern world through a hot cup.
But do you know, how this mysterious drink came into existence?”
The Origins of Tea
The story starts in old China in 2737 BC, where Emperor Shen Nong accidentally had the wild leaves from a tree growing out of the ground blow into his pot of boiling water.
Tea Travels to the West
The 16th century witnessed the movement of tea from its cradle in the East to capture Europe. The first to bring the leaf to the West were Portuguese and Dutch traders who, after extremely long voyages, managed to unload their cargo of tea on the British Isles.
What is more striking is the fact that this fashionable beverage quickly crossed all social barriers and was welcomed in mansions of nobles as well as in cottages of peasant folk.
Tea’s Royal Reign in Britain
By the 19th century, tea became the choice drink in Britain — facilitated no doubt by the British East India Company’s manipulation of securing sufficient supply to quench an entire nation’s thirst.
The social rituals accompanying it were rather far cries about how refreshing afternoon tea had gained lingering fame for its perpetuity.
The International Impact of Tea
Today, crossing different cultures around various continents with some humble charm, over 3.7 million metric tonnes global yearly consumption as observed and recorded by the World Tea Association continues to highlight its enduring attraction. However, though the path of tea from the East to the West is a story rooted deep in history, it keeps changing, with new variations and creativity attracting the taste buds of different generations.
So, whenever you have a cup of tea, be it Earl Grey in the morning or a calming chamomile at night, think about its interesting and varied past – an international trip in every gulp.
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