A History of the World in 6 Glasses

A History of the World in 6 Glasses

• Genre: Nonfiction; history; culinary
• Originally Published: 2005
• Reading Level/Interest: College/Adult
• Structure/Length: The book is structured chronologically and divided into sections based on six different beverages: beer, wine, spirits, coffee, tea, and Coca-Cola; approximately 336 pages; approximately 7 hours and 34 minutes on audio
• Central Concern: Tom Standage presents a unique perspective on world history, examining how six key beverages—beer, wine, spirits, coffee, tea, and Coca-Cola—have influenced cultures and societies throughout time. The book delves into the origins, spread, and impact of these drinks, showcasing how they reflect and shaped social, political, and economic changes. From the ancient civilizations to modern times, Standage connects the dots between historical events and these influential beverages, illustrating their role in trade, exploration, and cultural development.
• Potential Sensitivity Issues: Discussions of colonialism and its impact on indigenous populations; references to alcohol consumption and its societal impacts; historical conflicts; enslavement; the trading of enslaved Africans; wars

Tom Standage, Author

• Bio: Born 1969; British author and journalist; Deputy Editor at The Economist; known for his works blending history and technology; has written extensively on historical and tech-related topics
• Other Works: The Victorian Internet (1998); The Turk (2002); An Edible History of Humanity (2009); Writing on the Wall (2013); The Innovation Illusion (2020); and more

CENTRAL THEMES connected and noted throughout this Teaching Guide:

• Religion
• Culture
• Imperialism and Globalization

STUDY OBJECTIVES: In accomplishing the components of this Teaching Guide, students will:

• Develop an understanding of the social and cultural contexts surrounding beverages that impact the world economy.
• Study paired texts and other brief resources to make connections via the text’s themes of Religion, Culture, and Imperialism and Globalization.
• Construct a written history of the world through the trade of a specific good based on textual details.
• Analyze and evaluate the author’s purpose and techniques to draw conclusions in structured essay responses regarding women, Coca-Cola, and other topics.