A Brief History of Coffee: An Animated History

Jonathan Morris‘ illuminating TED-Ed lesson explores the captivating brief history of coffee, tracing the evolution of coffee from a local delicacy to a global phenomenon. Through his exploration, we gain insight into how coffee’s allure transcends borders and cultures, weaving its way into the fabric of human civilization.

Some of us are familiar with the captivating tale of its supposed discovery, attributed to an Ethiopian goat herder who observed his animals becoming remarkably lively after munching on coffee beans. Legend has it that upon sharing his findings with a nearby monastery, the trajectory of coffee was forever altered. While the veracity of this tale remains a subject of debate, what remains undeniable is the origins of coffee consumption in Ethiopia, where it was embraced in various forms.

The early iterations of coffee were not confined to bean-based concoctions; rather, some cultures experimented with brewing the leaves of the coffee plant, a fact that often surprises modern coffee lovers. This unconventional method of preparation adds another layer of complexity to coffee’s narrative, contrasting it with its botanical counterpart, tea, which is derived from leaves rather than beans.

The true allure of coffee lies not merely in its origins or preparation methods but in its remarkable journey to global dominance. From humble beginnings in the highlands of Ethiopia, coffee traversed continents and cultures, captivating the palates and energizing the minds of people across the globe. Its ascent was not merely a matter of taste; it was a conquest driven by the irresistible combination of flavor and the invigorating effects of caffeine.

What sets coffee apart is its unique ability to induce a sense of euphoria and alertness without the unwelcome aftermath of regrettable decisions. In a world where indulgence often comes with consequences, coffee stands as a beacon of joy, offering solace and stimulation in equal measure.

Originally, coffee found its foremost admirers in the Islamic world, its birthplace, where its consumption became intricately intertwined with religious observances. With its capacity to stave off hunger and promote wakefulness, coffee became an indispensable aid for fasting during daylight hours and remaining alert throughout the night, particularly during the holy month of Ramadan.

As the popularity of coffee burgeoned, by the early to mid-1500s, its reach extended beyond the confines of its birthplace. Coffee houses, serving as vibrant hubs of social interaction and intellectual discourse, emerged in bustling cities such as Cairo, Damascus, and Istanbul, the illustrious capital of the Ottoman Empire. These establishments swiftly became integral components of urban life, attracting a diverse array of patrons, from merchants and scholars to artisans and government officials.

A pivotal moment in the evolution of coffee culture arrived with the unveiling of the world’s first commercial espresso machine in Milan in 1906, marking a significant milestone in the industrialization and mechanization of the coffee-drinking experience. By the mid-twentieth century, coffee breaks had become ingrained in the fabric of American work culture, with approximately 60 percent of U.S. factories incorporating designated intervals for coffee consumption.

In more recent times, discerning consumers have gravitated towards specialty coffees, emphasizing the sourcing of high-quality beans and the refinement of brewing techniques. Additionally, there has been a growing awareness of the importance of certifications ensuring fair wages and sustainable farming practices within the coffee industry.

Regardless of the considerations driving our coffee choices, for many, it has become an indispensable element of both personal and professional rituals. Indeed, it’s hard to ignore the role of coffee in fueling our daily endeavors, as evidenced by its frequent companionship with countless moments of productivity, creativity, and contemplation.