History of Tea

Many of the world’s greatest inventions - such as umbrellas, gunpowder, and spaghetti -came from China. Tea is no exception. From its legendary origins to its explosive popularity, tea remains a globally beloved beverage.

It was the wind Emperor Shen Nung of China ca. 3000 B.C. was known for his interest in science, passion for the arts, and love of education in general. He encouraged his subjects to follow his example of boiling water before drinking it. One day, leaves landed in his freshly boiled cup. He tasted the curious brown water and loved it.

In writing Drinking tea spread throughout China into every social class and societal sphere. In 800, ex-Buddhist monk Lu Yu wrote a detailed book about it. His descriptions of tea farming and drink preparation reflected the Zen philosophies of his early background.

Across the ocean Buddhist monks brought tea with them to Japan as a part of their religious ritual. It was immediately popular. Elaborate drinking ceremonies called “Cha-no-yu” were formed and tea became a part of life for all people.

The race begins Europe first tasted tea when Portuguese missionary Jasper de Cruz brought back boxes from China. Holland joined the flourishing trade and soon became prominent in the business. Later, England’s East India Trading Company completely monopolized the tea trade.

No longer just trade The era of tea consumption by trade ended when Scottish agriculturalist Robert Fortune stole seeds from China and brought them to India in 1843. After much trial and error, he succeeded in creating England’s first tea plantation.

A part of history In the mid to late 1600s, a high demand for oriental things soon formed in Europe. Tea was among the most popular items. Characteristic to its nature, tea became a part of everyday life for people in all social classes and drunk at all occasions. Traditions such as Tea Gardens, industries for porcelain pottery, and inventions such as the speedy ship called the clipper all arose as a result of tea. It was the most popular drink of England, Portugal, Holland, Russia, America and many more.

Tea remains today a treasured drink for all classes and all occasions.