A History Of The World In 6 Glasses By Tom Standage

Throughout human history, various beverages have played a significant role in shaping societies and cultures. "A History of the World in 6 Glasses" by Tom Standage explores the impact of beverages such as beer and wine on different civilizations. This essay aims to argue that beer had a more profound impact on the history of humanity compared to wine. By examining the historical evidence presented in the book we can look into the societal, economic, and cultural transformations brought about by beer.

Beer had a considerable impact on the development of human societies. In ancient civilizations such as Mesopotamia and Egypt, beer played a central role in religious and social practices. The Sumerians, for example, revered beer as a gift from the gods and believed it to possess divine properties. “This drink became central to social, religious, and economic life and was the staple beverage of the earliest civilizations.” This portrays the societal importance that beer has brought to others by connecting others.

The rise of agriculture and the cultivation of cereal crops, such as barley, for beer production spurred the development of specialized farming techniques. Standage's book highlights how beer acted as a currency in ancient Sumer trade networks. The abundance of cereal grains could be used for brewing, leading to increased trade, and economic exchanges. Not only that but cereal grains could last for numerous years, stated in the book, “Unlike other foodstuffs, they could be stored for consumption months or even years later, if kept dry and safe.” This indicates that the profusion of beer and its long-lasting lifespan has transformed the