A Little History About Alcohol
Ever wonder what the term ‘honeymoon’ meant? All over the world, there is much evidence that history of alcohol goes as far back as over 10,000 years ago! In fact, in some ancient cultures, the communities figured out how to make beer before even learning how to make bread! From worshipping wine to settling feudal arguments, alcohol has come to the rescue for many civilizations, as well as many more to come.
Cultures such as the Romans, Greek and Egyptians all had based many rituals and gatherings around the consumption of alcohol. The ancient Egyptians even buried people with a little alcohol to take with them in the afterlife. In ancient Babylonian times, there are over 20 different styles of beer before 800 B.C., when China and India began producing their own forms of alcohol such as the world famously beloved sake, cognac and brandy through the distillation of barley and rice.
As time moved forward during the Roman civil war, Caesar and his troops introduced beer to Northern Europe creating a whole influx of brewing activity. Many of the monasteries in Europe began producing beer as it was a nourishing beverage that they could consume in the monastery while also selling some on the side, which would help benefit their monastery. Now Don’t we all appreciate the efforts that went into such wonder beers such as Chimay which is still produced by monks?
Many years later came the Renaissance which meant more beer? Indeed this did have an impact on alcohol and brewing as it was known, but this time they put science into the equation when concocting different forms of alcoholic beverages. It was around this time when the big boom in all the different forms of alcohol came about in many countries throughout the world. With these big booms came all sorts of new types of alcohol such as Russian Vodka, Mexican Tequila, German, Belgian, English and other types of drinks for all the world to enjoy!
Soon thereafter, came the boom in the newfound colonies in America which made a trade out of alcohol in the now United States. In later years, the alcohol sold and distributed throughout the U.S. were served in establishments such as local saloons with also supplemented their incomes with a little gambling and prostitution on the side for their patrons. However, many groups of people were disgusted with this sort of lifestyle and began to fight the consumption of alcohol altogether. These abstinence fighters worked and worked tooth and nail to get laws passed in order to place a ban on alcohol throughout the United States in order to create an ideal ‘sober’ nation and to rid the nation of the ‘evils’ of alcohol. Well, in 1920 they finally succeeded and alcohol was banned. This was better know as prohibition. It was during these times, many powerful gangs, bootleggers, racketeers, and smugglers got their start and caused quite an increase in criminal activity and the famous ‘black market’ of booze, which had made many people sick through poorly-made and contaminated beverages.
Around 1932, the government realized that something went terribly wrong as John D. Rockefeller, a well-known industrialist stated: “When Prohibition was introduced, I hoped that it would be widely supported by public opinion and the day would soon come when the evil effects of alcohol would be recognized. I have slowly and reluctantly come to believe that this has not been the result. Instead, drinking has generally increased; the speakeasy has replaced the saloon; a vast army of lawbreakers has appeared; many of our best citizens have openly ignored Prohibition; respect for the law has been greatly lessened; and crime has increased to a level never seen before.”
The ban on alcohol and Prohibition in general was lifted in 1933. Many of the world’s largest breweries in existence today such as Budweiser reopened for business and not only lifted many spirits, but also began brewing the world famous style also known as the American lager.
So what do you think? Was prohibition the answer to the problems of the time or did it cause more problems than it was worth? Of course we don’t have too much evidence stating in detail as to what problems had arisen in ancient times due to the alcohol trade, but it does seem in the evidence we do have that people have always been much more content with the freedom of being able to consume alcohol versus that of prohibition. When consuming alcohol, however, remember that the health benefits of alcohol come when consumed in moderation as opposed to over doing it. Enjoy!
By: S. Michael Windsor
Posts Tagged ‘Ancient Egyptians’
A Little History About Alcohol
January 30th, 2010The History Of Hypnosis Revealed
October 16th, 2009When it comes to exploring the history of hypnotism, you will find both scientific and unscientific pit stops throughout time. There is also an artistic aspect that warrants attention regarding the subject. As you study the records associated with this unique mental journey, an assortment of characters illustrate the power that hypnosis has possessed throughout the years.
To truly appreciate the longevity of hypnosis, it is vital to take a look at its use throughout ancient civilizations. While there is evidence showcasing the use of hypnosis rituals during pre-historic times, you may find one of the first intriguing visual accounts through hieroglyphics decorating the early 3000 BC tombs of ancient Egyptians. It is believed that hypnotism was utilized within various “sleep temples,” which had connections to healing or religion.
Throughout ancient history, a wide range of ancient proof surrounds the fact that hypnotism was understood and practiced during numerous medicinal practices and rituals. Celtic druids to ancient Greeks to Chinese religious leaders have all shown a respect for hypnotism, as the accomplishment was also prevalent throughout Africa, Persia and South America. It is even thought that details regarding the practice of hypnosis can be found throughout the pages of the Jewish Scriptures and the Hindu Vedas.
Surrounded by spiritualism, magic and divine power, hypnotism was met with plenty of opposition for those who questioned this mysterious practice and technique. During the early years, hypnosis was a popular exercise associated with shamans, witch doctors, as well as high priests. With each passing year, there have been thousands of influences upon hypnosis, as scientific, as well as unscientific approaches contributed to the advancement of this captivating entity.
Hypnosis in the 1700s
During the 1700s, one of the most well known figures in hypnosis history is an Austrian by the name of Franz Anton Mesmer (1734-1815). Throughout the 18th century, he led the way in the usage of trace, which earned him the nickname, “Father of Hypnosis.” It is also through his name that we find the term, “mesmerism.”
At the urging of Mozart, Mesmer purchased a space where he could perform magical “cures” on people. While many praised his healing powers, which were often accompanied with lights and other gimmicks, there were others who dismissed his results as a figment of the imagination. One notable critic was none other than Benjamin Franklin.
Hypnosis During the 1800s
In France, one of the first scientific explorations regarding hypnosis took place with the help of Abbe Castodi de Faria. He investigated the ins and outs of the practice as it related to trances and willing participants. Faria is also credited with establishing what is known as the “fixed-gaze method,” which became a rage throughout stage hypnotism shows.
Also during this time, without the effort of John Elliotson of England, the use of magnetism and hypnosis may have never found its way in easing the pain of surgery. As for the concept of autosuggestion, the thoughts and teachings of Emile Coue brought this to the public. Coue contended that all hypnosis was influenced by self-hypnotic techniques.
But during the 1800s, it was the work of Dr. James Braid that really catapulted hypnosis. Through his studies, suggestibility, as it related to trance, was thought to be an individual occurrence. Using vocal suggestion, he was able to explore the influence that hypnotists had on their subjects. Braid is also honored for discovering “waking hypnosis.”
Entering the 20th Century
The history of hypnotism travels throughout a vast record in time. It was used to treat trauma victims during both World Wars. Dentists utilized its power as hypnotic-anesthesia. In 1955, the British Medical Association began to consider hypnotherapy as a legitimate medical treatment. Three years later, the American Medical Association (AMA) agreed. Following these acknowledgements throughout the medical world, a host of professional associations for hypnotists started to pop up across the globe. To date, the National Guild of Hypnotists is still the oldest and largest of its kind.
During the 20th century, many researchers, doctors and other medical figures began to take interest in learning more about hypnosis. Important strides on the subject were then made by the likes of John Kappas, Ormond McGill, Milton Erickson and Dave Elman.
To explore the history of hypnosis, one will encounter a wealth of personalities who have shaped the way people viewed and accepted the field. Well-known characters, such as Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Thomas Edison, Winston S. Churchill and Albert Einstein have also shown interest in hypnosis or self-hypnosis.
By: Cliff Mee
