A history of beer
Archaelogists have learned that beer was first discovered about 12,000 years ago. Roughly around the same time cereal agriculture was developing. According to historians, it most likely came about when some grain began to ferment after coming in contact with water.
Many scholars have found evidence that some early humans grew and stored grain for beer rather than for bread. The earliest reference to beer can be traced back at least six thousand years to the ancient civilization of Sumeria. At that time beer had a cloudy appearance due to the residue it contained and would have been too heavy to create a head of foam. Despite the bitterness, beer remained a popular beverage.
By 2000 B.C., the Ancient Babylonians began brewing at least 20 different varieties of beer. Citizens received daily beer ration, calculated by their social standing. Beer was used as barter and workers were often paid in beer. Hammurabi's Code, the ancient Babylonian set of laws, also prescribed death to bar owners who overcharged their patrons for beer.
Ancient beers tasted different from what we drink today. It was common to add spices and herbs to the fermenting mixture. Some strange ingredients included olive oil , carrots and poppy.
Beer continued to be consumed during the Greek and Roman eras. It was in the Middle Ages when Christian monks began brewing beers seasoned with hops, creating the clear and frothy beverage we see today.
Today, the beer industry is a multi-million dollar industry largely dominated by Europe. By 2015, the projected value of the market will be USD 137, 458.9 million by 2015 (Transparency Market Research).
In Canada, the beer economy supports 1 out of every 100 jobs and generates $5.8 billion in government revenues. The brewing industry is over three times larger than the wineries and distilleries industries. Beer consumption in one province supports jobs in many other provinces along its supply chain. Every $1 spent on beer in Canada generates $1.12 in GDP across the country.
To read more about the beer industry, take a look at these and other books:
2 thoughts on “A history of beer”
There’s also a great documentary on beer called For the Love of Beer! Great reads to check out though too!
Thanks for the recommendation Danielle. I’ll look it up!