The History of Coffee and How it Was Discovered

Did you know?: Approximately 64 percent of Americans drink coffee on a regular basis. But where did this wondrous beverage originate, and how did it become so popular?

Grab a fresh cuppa Joe, and enjoy the riveting history of coffee as you sip your brew.

The Legend From Ethiopia

Legend has it that in Ethiopia, a goat herder called Kaldi realized that his goats appeared to be very energetic after eating berries from a certain tree. The plants caused the goats to stay awake at night.

After he relayed this discovery to a local monks group, the monks used these berries (or beans) to create a hot beverage. They discovered that the drink increased their energy during evening prayers. Hence began the human love of coffee.

Wide-Spread Trade

Over time, coffee made it’s way to the Arabian peninsula. By the 16th century, coffee was well-known and loved across all Middle East parts, including Syria, Persia, Turkey, and Egypt.

Though people enjoyed coffee in their homes at the time, it was also available in social settings. For example, it was common for people to congregate at public coffee houses to enjoy conversations, listen to music, and drink coffee. Of course, this tradition stands the test of time; today, local coffee shops are more popular than ever.

The History of Coffee In Europe

European travelers to the middle east brought tales of this invigorating beverage back home with them. That’s how, by the 17th century, coffee arrived in Europe.

Until this time, the most common European beverages to have with breakfast were wine and beer. However, before long, people found that having coffee instead of alcohol early in the day helped them be more alert and productive. Simply put, Europe got hooked on coffee.

The New World

Coffee was brought to the American colonies in the mid 17th century. While it did become quite popular, tea was still the preferred beverage of the colonists. This changed after the Boston Tea Party and the Revolutionary War.

Coffee In the Modern Era

Today, coffee is a cultural staple across the world. Though everyone is united in their love of coffee, varying brewing methods are popular in every region.

For instance:

• Europeans love instant coffee with water boiled from a kettle.
• Americans enjoy using coffee machines with either the drip or pour-over brewing methods.
• Italians prefer their own signature style of coffee known as espresso.

No matter the preferred brewing style, a fresh cup made from quality coffee beans is always a hit among java lovers.

Ethical and Environmental Responsibility

Today, ethical and environmental considerations are at the forefront of manufacturing coffee. These include reducing pollution, using renewable energy, and responsibly sourcing fresh beans.

Making sure that growers, roasters, and other employee’s rights are respected is another key consideration of coffee companies who care about sustainability. Sustainable coffee is as much about ensuring that everyone is paid a living wage as it is about creating delicious, flavorful coffee.

Take a Sip

Now that you know the history of coffee, it’s time to sip a yummy brew. Do you love dogs as much as you love coffee?

If so, join us in celebrating both by selecting your roaster’s bundle here. We pride ourselves on our sustainable coffee and our initiative to save pooches, one coffee bean at a time.