Beer: A Global Journey through the Past and Present

Beer has played a significant role in shaping human society, from its invention 13,000 years ago to its contribution to the domestication of grains and the construction of ancient pyramids. It is a social lubricant that brings people together and is a gift connecting people to their ancestors. Archaeologist John W. Arthur's book "Beer" explores the origins, development, and recipes of ancient beer, highlighting its significance in peoples' lives through four themes: innovating new technologies, ensuring health and well-being, building economic and political statuses, and imbuing life with ritual and religious connections.

Format: Hardback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 23 June 2022
Publisher: Oxford University Press Inc

Beer, an ancient and contemporary beverage, holds a profound significance that extends far beyond its intoxicating nature. Its origins can be traced back to ancient civilizations across the Near East, Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas, where it emerged as a vital food source that played a crucial role in shaping the development of agriculture and the establishment of some of the earliest state-level societies. The invention of beer approximately 13,000 years ago marked a significant milestone, as it was one of the primary motivations for the domestication of grains worldwide. In early states, control over the technological knowledge and resources required for beer production contributed to the establishment of social hierarchies. Moreover, beer likely played a significant role in funding the construction of ancient pyramids and other monumental public works, as laborers were motivated by the promise of this intoxicating beverage.

Beyond its economic and social implications, beer also offered a healthy and safe alternative to contaminated drinking water in early societies. The fermentation process of beer produced a drink that was less likely to cause illness and was a source of essential nutrients. This continued to be the case among rural Indigenous populations today, where beer remains a staple and a source of nourishment.

Beer is not just a beverage; it is a social lubricant that brings people together and fosters a sense of community. In many Indigenous societies, both past and present, beer holds a special place as a gift that connects individuals to their ancestors. The same innovations pioneered by ancient brewers are now transforming the global craft beer industry, introducing new ingredients and flavors that reflect the diverse cultures and traditions around the world.

In his book, "Beer: A History of Brewing and Drinking," archaeologist John W. Arthur takes readers on an exhilarating global journey to explore the origins, development, and recipes of ancient beer. This unique book focuses on past and present non-industrial beers, highlighting their significance in people's lives through four themes: innovating new technologies, ensuring health and well-being, building economic and political statuses, and imbuing life with ritual and religious connections. As this book vividly demonstrates, beer has had a remarkable impact on our world over the past 13,000 years, shaping our societies, economies, and cultural practices in profound ways.

In conclusion, beer is a multifaceted beverage with a rich history and a profound impact on human society. From its origins as a food source to its role in shaping social hierarch.

Weight: 444g
Dimension: 150 x 216 x 32 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780197579800