The Fascinating History of Coffee: From Goatherds to Global Beverage

🐐Coffee was discovered when a goatherd named Kaldi noticed unusual behavior in his goats after they ate berries.

☕️Coffee gained popularity in Yemen and the Ottoman Empire, where it was roasted and ground to create a bold beverage.

🏛️Coffeehouses became cultural hubs in Europe, where intellectuals gathered to drink coffee and discuss ideas.

🌍European empires profited from coffee-growing, often at the expense of enslaved or exploited populations.

🌱Specialty coffees with an emphasis on quality and sustainable farming have gained popularity in recent decades.

When was coffee first discovered?

—Coffee was first discovered around 850 CE by a goatherd named Kaldi.

Where did coffee gain popularity?

—Coffee gained popularity in Yemen and the Ottoman Empire.

What role did coffeehouses play in European society?

—Coffeehouses became social and intellectual hotbeds in Europe, where people gathered to drink coffee and discuss ideas.

How did European empires profit from coffee-growing?

—European empires established enslaved or exploited workforces in Asia, Latin America, and the Caribbean to profit from coffee-growing.

What is the trend in coffee consumption in recent decades?

—In recent decades, there has been a growing popularity of specialty coffees with an emphasis on quality and sustainable farming.

00:06Around 850 CE, a goatherd named Kaldi discovered coffee when his goats ate berries and began to act unusually.

01:23Coffee gained popularity in Yemen and the Ottoman Empire. It was consumed as a beverage and enjoyed during ritual chants and dances.

02:46Coffeehouses became social and intellectual hubs in Europe, attracting figures like Diderot and Voltaire.

03:31European empires profited from coffee-growing by establishing enslaved or exploited workforces in regions like Latin America.

04:26In recent decades, there has been a rise in specialty coffees that prioritize quality and sustainable farming methods.