The Rise and Rise of Coffee

Coffee was discovered in 850 AD and for over two centuries was made directly from the ripe coffee cherries and consumed as a refreshing cold drink.

It was not until the 1100's that is was discovered that when coffee was dried, roasted and crushed it made a far supplier drink when combined with hot water. It became very popular with Muslims in the late 1200's and effectively became a part of their religion. Coffee followed the Muslim religion into India, Northern Africa and the Middle East.

European nations were late to the party and it was not until the seventeenth century that coffee was readily available. It is said that travelers from Venice first brought back beans from the Middle East, after enjoying the beverage in established 'coffee houses' in foreign lands.

Soon the Venetians were importing large quantities of coffee into Italy and the first coffee house was opened in 1645. Britain soon followed, despite being great tea drinkers, and the first coffee house was opened in London 5 years later. The French were a little further behind, the first Parisian coffee-shop opening in 1686.

Coffee drinking quickly spread throughout Europe. By the 18th century there were huge numbers of establishments in the major cities in Europe. It is said that the custom of tipping waiters started in a busy London coffee shop. A small wooden box was put on display with a sign saying, "To Insure Prompt Service" (TIPS). Customers were encouraged to drop a coin or two into the box.

These establishments became very fashionable places to frequent, and many artists, musicians, bankers, politicians and other influential people would meet to discuss world events. In Paris, coffee houses attracted revolutionaries, who discussed their plans to topple the French monarchy.

Coffee Shops have also played an important part in commerce and finance. For example, Jonathan's Coffee House in Change Alley, which was used by stockbrokers, would later develop into the London Stock Exchange. Similarly, ship owners and marine insurance brokers would meet at Edward Lloyd's Coffee Shop in Lombard Street and it would later become the center of world insurance and the headquarters of Lloyds of London.

In the United States too, coffee drinking had a big influence. Coffee houses appeared in New York, Boston, Philadelphia and Baltimore. The Green Dragon became a meeting place for John Adams and other revolutionaries plotting against England.

Both the New York Stock Exchange, The Bank of New York and indeed Wall Street were formed and originated from a meeting of like minds in local coffee drinking establishments.

As can be appreciated coffee has been indoctrinated into most cultures of the world and has had a part to play in world events, from the French Revolution to the Boston tea party.