The Origin of Coffee: From Legend to Global Craze

The legendary origin of coffee

The origin of coffee can be traced back centuries, and there is an ancient legend associated with it. According to legend, in the 9th century AD, a shepherd in the Ethiopian highlands discovered the coffee tree. The shepherd, named Kaldi, noticed that his goats became unusually active after eating the berries of a certain plant.

Curiosity drove Kaldi to taste the fruit of this plant and found that it has the effects of refreshing the mind, increasing energy and resisting fatigue. So Kaldi took these fruits home and told the monks in the local monastery.

Coffee culture flourishes in the Arab world

From that time on, coffee became popular in the Arab world. Monks in monasteries used coffee to stay awake and focused, using it as a stimulant during long prayers and fasting periods.

Over time, people began to realize that drinking coffee could also bring social pleasure. In the Arab region, people often gathered in coffee houses to drink coffee, exchange ideas and conduct business negotiations.

Coffee is introduced to Europe

Coffee began to be introduced to Europe with the arrival of European explorers in the late 16th century. The first countries to introduce coffee were Italy and the Netherlands. The Dutch planted coffee seeds brought back from the Arabian region in their colonies in Indonesia.

Soon, Europe became interested in this new drink. Britain, France, and other countries opened their first coffee houses, which served as social venues and cultural centers.

A global craze

Over time, the love for coffee has gradually deepened around the world. In the late 18th century and early 19th century, during the Industrial Revolution, with the rapid development of machine manufacturing, a large number of laborers were needed in factories.

The refreshing effect of caffeine is widely recognized and has become a must-have for workers to stay awake and improve work efficiency. Coffee shops have also become places for workers to rest, communicate and relax.

With the advancement of science and technology and the trend of globalization, the coffee industry has also developed rapidly. Not only in the traditional Arab region, but also in other countries such as Brazil and Colombia, coffee has begun to be planted on a large scale and has become one of the world's major coffee producers.

Conclusion

From an ancient legend to the love and pursuit of the world today, coffee has gone through a long and glorious journey. It is not only a beverage, but also a culture, social and enjoyable lifestyle. No matter where we are, at any time, we can feel this beauty by tasting a cup of fragrant and delicious coffee.