Imagine a day without tea! With this in mind, the importance of the 'cuppa' is briefly explored to see the value of the tea leaf, and the impact upon the world, including imperialism, industrialisation, political unrest, revolution, and the prevalence of societies afternoon tea ritual and decorum. 

The Medicinal Connection

Our fascination with tea can be attributed to the Dutch, who in 1606 introduced to Europe, black tea leaves exported from China. Of course, China had been enjoying the delights of tea drinking since the Shang Dynasty, when tea was sipped for medicinal purpose. There is historical documentation of the medicinal administration of tea by the Chinese Physician Hao Tuo in the third century AD. The promotion of the health benefits of tea was continued, when it was introduced to the British Shores in 1658  by Thomas Garway of Garraways Coffee House in Exchange Alley, London,  who advertised the sale of tea for its medicinal benefits rather than a recreational refreshment .

The Luxury of a New Taste

Throughout the 17th century, tea drinking gained popularity amongst the upper classes, who kept their tea under lock and key, as this newly acquired taste was as much a luxury as the tropical pineapple. Catherine Braganza was noted for taking tea in the royal court, which in effect was comparable to an influencer on Instagram, and so the word spread, and the popularity of tea would in time be open to all.

The Political Aspect of Tea

The British India Tea Company can be credited for the increased popularity of tea throughout British society, as in effect, they created fiercely competitive tea production in British India on an industrial scale, so to compete with China. Tea became a dominant aspect of trade and consequently had an impact on world politics. One of the most noted associations of the power of tea and political change, is the Boston Tea Party. Boston being one of thirteen British America States (unlucky number in China! And yes, British India, British America, and the list goes on with imperial rule) opposed the implementation of the Tea Act of 10th May 1773 which saw the exclusion of tax on tea from China by the East India Company. Of course, this was not deemed acceptable, and rebellion ensued, with 342 chests of tea being flung from a docked British ship in the port of Boston, on 16th December 1773. Needless to say, the British were not amused, and so this tea party was just the beginning of political change. The power of tea can be considered significant, not only for revitalising people, but also world politics!

The Afternoon Tea Party

The 'Tea Party' does have connotations of social grace and was most definitely influenced by The Duchess of Bedfordshire, who in the 19th century was known for her fine afternoon teas, which included the serving of quality tea in fine china tea cups, and a selection of delicacies, including cucumber sandwiches and sweet cakes  ( oh... sugar, now there is another story!). With the increase in those who aspired to the middle-classes, there was a necessary need to produce beautiful china tea services which would adorn many afternoon tea parties. And so, the potteries of Britain created many designs of which some have survived the changes of modern society, and are now available as sustainable, historical works of functional art.

So, raise your china tea cup, with one's little finger raised, to the joy of tea, and acknowledge the lengths nations have travelled for a perfect sip!

The photograph displayed is the copyright of Spudgun67 - Own work, CC BY-SA 4

as referenced https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Garraway%27s_Coffee_House

The History of Tea Drinking