The documentary, “How Beer Saved the World”, explores the profound impact of beer on human civilization, presenting a compelling argument that beer has been a catalyst for significant historical events. It challenges conventional narratives by suggesting that beer, not just a beverage, played a pivotal role in shaping the course of history.
In the opening segment, the documentary asserts that beer, rather than traditional inventions like the wheel or the plane, kickstarted civilization. It contends that the imperative to make beer led to the world’s first farmlands and triggered the agricultural revolution around 9000 BC. According to scientists like Dr. Patrick Hayes and archaeologist Dr. Pat McGovern, barley was domesticated primarily for brewing beer, providing evidence from ancient jugs’ residue.
Beer’s Influence on Technology and Culture
The film posits that beer’s feel-good factor led to the propagation of barley, creating a chain reaction of inventions that advanced technology. Dr. Stephen Tinney, an expert in ancient texts, suggests that beer was a driving force behind the invention of writing, leading to math, measurement, and the establishment of borders between fields. The narrative builds a fascinating connection between the thirst for beer, the development of agriculture, and the evolution of human culture.
The documentary further explores how beer played a crucial role in the construction of the pyramids in ancient Egypt. It reveals that beer was not just a beverage but a vital source of nutrition for the laborers, with daily wages paid in beer. The film paints a picture of beer as a fundamental aspect of ancient Egyptian life, influencing not only their diet but also pioneering medical practices through the medicinal use of beer.
The Unlikely Hero: Beer in Medieval Europe
Moving forward, the documentary delves into the Middle Ages, where beer is presented as a lifesaver for millions. The University of California Davis professor, Charles Bamforth, argues that beer brewing processes in medieval Europe unintentionally removed harmful microorganisms, making the beverage safer than water. An experiment demonstrates how medieval beer, brewed from pond water, eliminated fecal coliform bacteria, showcasing beer as a miracle transformation from deadly water to a drinkable and safe alternative.
The film explores the widespread consumption of beer in medieval Europe, emphasizing its integral role in society. Monks, in particular, profited from beer production, contributing to the growth of trade, commerce, and modern capitalism. The documentary unveils how beer became a unifying factor in Europe and played a significant role in establishing taverns as hubs of communication.
Beer’s Impact on the Birth of America
The narrative takes a leap to the colonization of America, revealing how beer played a crucial role in the survival and development of the new world. Founding fathers like George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and Sam Adams were brewers, and beer was credited with determining the location of the founding colony, Plymouth, due to its availability. The film uncovers that water was avoided in favor of beer, as settlers believed it to be safer, resulting in a significant beer culture that connected people through taverns.
The documentary boldly claims that beer inspired one of the greatest events in human history, the American Revolution. It contends that the Green Dragon Tavern in Boston served as a meeting place for the Sons of Liberty, shaping discussions that eventually led to the struggle for freedom. The national anthem’s roots in an 18th-century drinking song are highlighted, emphasizing beer’s role in the foundation of America.
Beer: A Pioneer in Science and Industry
The film takes an intriguing turn by exploring beer’s role in scientific advancements. It credits beer with contributing to the discovery of pasteurization, as Louis Pasteur initially studied beer to understand why it sometimes spoiled. This revelation led to the understanding that bacteria and germs cause sickness, paving the way for vaccines and improved hygiene practices. Beer’s influence extends to the 19th century, where it played a significant role in the development of refrigeration, solving problems related to food storage, medicine, and even organ transplants.
The documentary concludes by highlighting beer’s unexpected impact on industrialization. It challenges the conventional narrative that the motor car revolutionized American industry by showcasing how beer production, with its automation and innovative technologies, preceded the automotive industry by at least a decade. The film argues that beer, often underestimated, played a vital role in transforming the economic landscape and revolutionizing American industry.
The Unbroken Legacy of Beer
In a final celebration, “How Beer Saved the World” portrays beer as an enduring force that continues to shape our world. It humorously explores the concept of brewing beer in space and reflects on beer’s continuous influence on human development, from building towns and fostering commerce to driving scientific advancements. Ultimately, the documentary concludes that beer hasn’t just changed the world; it has saved it, leaving the audience with a cheer-worthy toast to this humble beverage’s remarkable legacy. Cheers!
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