Why embark on a journey into the captivating History of craft beer? Because what could be more enlightening than delving into a tradition that has been brewing since the very dawn of civilization? Throughout the ages, alcohol has held a central role and also found itself at the fringes of the human experience.
It has been not just a beverage but also a source of euphoria, a form of currency, a means of comfort, a tool of politics, and a sacred offering in rituals. From moments when excessive imbibing elevated mortals to god-like status to instances where a poorly brewed batch brought about unfortunate consequences, the multifaceted nature of alcohol has left an indelible mark on our collective history.
So, sit back, relax, and savor a pint as we take you on a joyous journey to explore the profound impact of alcohol and drugs on history. Prepare for a hoppier day ahead, as we delight in unraveling the uniqueness of this podcast, setting it apart from all others. We’re here to infuse your day with the vibrant spirit of exploration and knowledge. Cheers!
Craft beer trends
Craft Brewery Reviews
The United States reached the staggering total of 9,552 craft breweries by end of 2022, including 2,035 microbreweries, 3,418 brewpubs, 3,838 taproom breweries, and 261 regional craft breweries.
In 2022, there were 1,224 licensed breweries in Canada, an increase from 1,186 in the previous year. All 10 provinces produce high quality beer, with British Columbia, Ontario et Québec. Victoria, B.C, holds the title of highest brewpub by capita, with a total of 19 craft breweries for a population of 90,000
Craft Beer Review
Mike Davis has reviewed some of the top beers in Canada for you! Originally from England, he came to Quebec ten years ago to study history. During this time he fell in love with the microbreweries of Quebec, which reminded him of English pubs. Now, he holds a Ph.D in History from McGill University, but works in the beer world as the Brand Ambassador for Microbrasserie 4 Origines.
Craft Beer in World History
Hoppy History Podcast
Throughout history, the fermented beverage known as beer has played a significant role in shaping human societies, and traditions, and even driving monumental events. On Hoppy History, we delve key historical events where beer’s influence was truly intoxicating.
Long before recorded history, hunter-gatherer societies began to settle in one place, marking the dawn of civilization. This momentous shift from nomadic to agrarian societies was intricately tied to the cultivation of barley, a key ingredient in beer production. The domestication of barley not only provided a stable food source but also opened the gates to the art of brewing.
Around 7000 BCE, in ancient Mesopotamia (present-day Iran and Iraq), the Sumerians embraced beer as a staple in their diet and social life. Brewing beer became an essential skill passed down through generations, leading to the establishment of early beer-centric economies. The production and trade of beer led to the rise of specialized professions, such as brewers and tavern keepers, contributing to the first known forms of urbanization and social organization.
Beer’s significance was even enshrined in the Sumerian culture and religion, with hymns and prayers dedicated to the goddess Ninkasi, the patron deity of brewing. The influence of beer on agricultural societies not only contributed to the development of ancient civilizations but also laid the foundation for the social structures that define modern human societies.
In the Middle Ages, monastic breweries emerged as centers of knowledge, innovation, and community welfare. Monasteries were vital institutions during this era, and brewing beer became a common practice for sustenance and medicinal purposes. The monks’ dedication to perfecting brewing techniques allowed them to produce high-quality beer that was not only palatable but also safe to consume, as the brewing process involved boiling water, reducing the spread of waterborne diseases.
The beer brewed in monasteries was often shared with travelers and locals, serving as a form of hospitality and charity. Additionally, the profits from beer sales funded various charitable activities, including the establishment of schools, hospitals, and other community services.
Perhaps most notably, monastic breweries played a crucial role in preserving knowledge during the Dark Ages. Monks meticulously documented their brewing techniques and recipes, leading to the spread of brewing knowledge across Europe as they interacted with other monastic communities. As a result, beer production and brewing methods became widely accessible, contributing to the democratization of the brewing industry.
The European colonization of the Americas in the 16th century had a profound impact on indigenous cultures, and beer played a pivotal role in this chapter of history. Colonizers brought with them their brewing traditions and used beer as a means to control indigenous populations, often replacing traditional alcoholic beverages with European-style beer.
This cultural imposition led to the loss of native traditions and knowledge surrounding indigenous beverages, negatively impacting their cultural identity and health. Moreover, beer’s introduction often came at the expense of indigenous resources, as colonizers prioritized barley cultivation over indigenous crops, further exacerbating the marginalization of native communities.
