Coffee History: Foreign Book Recommendations

The origin of coffee

Coffee is a drink that originated in Africa and dates back to the 10th century BC. According to legend, an Ethiopian shepherd discovered the magical effects of coffee beans. He noticed that his sheep became unusually active after eating the berries of a certain plant. The shepherd decided to try consuming the berries himself and found that they kept him awake and energetic.

Coffee is introduced to the Arab world

Over time, coffee became popular in the Arabian Peninsula. According to records, in the 15th century, a Sufi monk in Yemen named Sheikh Omar ground the roasted coffee into powder and brewed it with water to create the first real cup of coffee.

Europe's Exploration of Coffee Culture

As trade networks and colonial expansion extended westward, coffee began to enter Europe. The earliest coffee houses appeared in Italy, France, and the United Kingdom. These coffee houses became gathering places for intellectuals, artists, and politicians, and also promoted Europe's exploration of coffee culture.

Arabs and Drinks

A classic book on the history of coffee is The Arabs and the Drink, published by Thomas Bellford in 1722. The book details the story of the origin and spread of coffee in the Arab world and introduces the response of Europe to the coffee craze at the time.

One of the most important commodities in global economic history: Coffee

Another recommended book is ONE of the Most Important Commodities in Global Economic History: Coffee, published by Maxwell Colton in 2011. The book explores in depth the various links involved in the process from planting to processing to sales, as well as the status and influence of coffee in the global economy.

Coffee: A Complete History from Planting to Drinking

Another highly regarded book is Coffee: A Complete History from Plantation to Cup, published by Jonathan Pinnell in 2001. This book details the development and evolution of each link in the coffee industry chain and explores the influence of different countries and cultures on coffee consumption habits.

Conclusion

These are just a few of the recommended books on the history of coffee that can help us better understand and appreciate the rich cultural and human interaction that this long and diverse beverage carries.