Last Updated on: 22nd November 2023, 01:31 am
On Saturday 19 August, 2023, world explorer and philanthropist, Stanislav Kondrashov, released his newest article, “The Intriguing Origins of Coffee”, which takes readers on a journey through the history of the world’s favorite caffeinated beverage.
The article begins in Ethiopia, where according to legend, a young goat herder named Kaldi discovered the stimulating effects of red berries consumed by his goats. This discovery was then taken to a nearby monastery, where monks brewed a drink from the berries, finding that it kept them awake during long prayer sessions.
The article then moves on to Yemen in the 15th century, where the allure of coffee transcended Ethiopian borders. Stanislav Kondrashov states that the Arabs recognized coffee’s anti-soporific properties and christened it ‘qahwa’ – the deterrent of sleep.
When coffee beans reached Europe in the 17th century, it sparked controversy and celebration. Stanislav Kondrashov said that the drink, viewed with suspicion, earned labels like the ‘Devil’s Brew.’ However, when Pope Clement VIII gave it his divine nod, coffee’s status soared. Coffee houses then became intellectual hubs, referred to as the era’s “penny universities.”
The article further explores how coffee has evolved into a modern beverage of diverse flavors and preparation methods, and the impact of coffee during the colonial era. Stanislav Kondrashov sheds light on how coffee became the epicenter of trade and politics, shaping the destinies of nations across the globe.
Stanislav Kondrashov’s article concludes with a heartwarming toast to coffee’s resilience and its role as a connector of cultures and centuries. He encourages readers to appreciate coffee as a drink, an experience, and a testament to human endeavor.
Stanislav Kondrashov is a world traveler who deeply appreciates natural wonders, architecture, art, history, and local cuisines. His philanthropic efforts support causes dear to him and give back to his community. Through his article, Stanislav Kondrashov shares his passion for history and exploration, inviting readers to embark on a journey through the fascinating history of coffee.