The history of beer in the world in 5 minutes! [The development of beer since ancient times]

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As a beer lover, you may want to know not only about the taste of beer, but also about its origins and development. In fact, the history of beer dates back to the Mesopotamian era and has evolved with various cultures and eras. In this article, we will take a detailed look at the history of beer from its birth to the present day.

By understanding the history of beer, you will be able to enjoy the taste of beer more deeply. Let's explore the history of beer together and enrich your beer life!

The origins of beer

There are various theories about the birth of beer, but the history of beer is said to have begun more than 4000 BC. Beer was already being consumed by the first human civilization, the Sumerian civilization, which existed in Mesopotamia. The Sumerians not only enjoyed beer, but also used it as a source of nutrition and as an alternative to raw water. Beer was particularly nutritious and was an important source of energy for people at the time. Around 3000 BC, beer spread to Egypt, and beer made from barley in particular. Beer was loved by everyone from commoners to royalty, and in Babylonia, laws regarding beer were even included in the first written law, the Code of Hammurabi, which was enacted in the 1700s BC.

Ancient Egyptian History: Pyramid Building and Beer

In ancient Egypt, beer was also provided to workers building pyramids. The workers consumed beer as a "meal" and it was an important source of nutrition during construction. Beer was provided to the workers every day to replenish their energy and support them in their hard work. In this way, beer was an essential ingredient in sustaining the workforce, and it is said to have contributed to nutrition, hydration, and morale.

History of Medieval Europe: Monasteries and Beer

In medieval Europe, monasteries played a central role in improving beer brewing techniques. Under the influence of Christian culture, monks refined beer into a nutritious drink, which is said to have also been used for medicinal purposes. Hops, which have antiseptic properties, were introduced into beer, and the quality and flavor improved from the 11th century onwards. Beer was also called "liquid bread" and was valued as an everyday food. The knowledge and techniques of the monasteries spread to the general public, and beer became a staple in urban areas.Guild System*This led to widespread use among many people, and demand increased.


*The organizational system of commerce and professions in medieval Europe. People who engaged in the same profession or commercial activity gathered together and formed associations to protect their mutual interests.

Germany's "Beer Purity Law" and the Establishment of Quality Standards

In 1516, the "Beer Purity Law" was enacted in Germany, legally regulating the quality of beer. This law stipulated that beer should be made only from barley, hops, and water, and established the quality standards for German beer. This rule was important for protecting the flavor and quality of beer, and it was at this time that German beer culture made great strides. The spirit of this Purity Law is still passed down today, and many German beer brands that adhere to traditional brewing methods still adhere to this law.

The Industrial Revolution and the Global Spread of Beer

In the 19th centuryIndustrial RevolutionThe invention of the cooling machine and the development of yeast culture technology made it possible to mass-produce beer of consistent quality all year round, and the shelf life of beer also improved.Pasteur*byPasteurization TechnologyThese technological innovations also contributed to improving the shelf life of beer, making it more widely available. As a result of these technological innovations, bottom-fermented beer (mainly lager) became mainstream, and beer began to spread around the world.

*19th century French chemist and microbiologist

The birth and development of beer in Japan

It is said that beer was first brought to Japan in the late 18th century, from the Netherlands through Dutch studies. Later, when Perry arrived in 1853, beer attracted attention again, and in the early Meiji period, American William Copeland established Spring Valley Brewery (now Asahi Breweries) in Yokohama, and began full-scale beer brewing for the first time in Japan. This beer company was founded in 1872 (Meiji 5). As the Meiji government actively adopted Western culture, beer spread in Japan, and large beer companies were established in various places, including Sapporo, Osaka, and Tokyo.

All of the major beer companies that exist today started anew during this period.

Modern Japan and the Establishment of Beer

At the end of the Meiji period, beer was accepted as a symbolic drink of modernization and enlightenment, and became established in Japan's drinking culture. Taxes were imposed on beer, and it became an important industry supporting liquor tax revenue. It also became widely enjoyed by the general public, and Japan's beer culture continues to develop to this day.

What the history of beer tells us

Throughout its long history, beer has influenced many countries and cultures. It has been closely linked to society as a source of nutrition, a safe drink, and a source of energy for workers, and has evolved over the years to match technology and values. From ancient times to the present, beer has given us a sense of connection to rich history and culture, and it will continue to be loved by many people in the future.