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The History Of Tea

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The tea cosy is a common every day object that probably doesn't seem very interesting. But it comes from Nobel origins, and was not only brought about to keep the teapot and its contents hot, but to also extend social activities. Pretty hard to believe isn't it, of a small knitted item that resembles a woolly hat?

The history of the tea cosy begins when tea was first introduced to Britain in the 1660's, when King Charles II married Catherine of Braganza. Catherine brought to court the pleasure of tea taking. Of course the importing of such a luxury item was very costly and a pleasure only the aristocracy could afford until 1750 when tea became Britain's National drink. Colonialism and the ever-increasing empire meant that more exotic goods were being brought to Britain more often and more cheaply. But it is probably the Duchess of Bedford who brought about the popularity of the tea cosy.

In 1840 the Duchess of Bedford established the activity of 'Afternoon Tea', an event that became so British that we still refer to four o'clock as 'Tea time'. During this era 'well to do' ladies didn't work, so the introduction of afternoon tea was a welcomed occupation. Unlike today, afternoon tea was a rather posh affair; the best china (usually fine China tea services imported from China) would be used and fancy cakes and pastries would accompany the tea. Usually invited guests or unexpected visitors would join in taking afternoon tea.

The tea party would be served at a table, often in the garden during the summer months. The matriarchal figure would pour everyone's tea and in her absence another would step in which is where the term 'Shall I be Mother' originated.

Afternoon tea was not only a happy pastime and a mini social event, but it was also a time for networking and keeping up to date with aristocracy gossip and topical news. Of course with all the chatter at teatime the teapot would get cold. This, at times, would have cut short some tea parties, giving reluctant guests an excuse to leave instead or sending for a fresh pot of tea. And so, the tea cosy came about. A warm little jacket to keep the tea pot piping hot and so extending teatime.

The History Of Tea

The history of tea is full of legends and colorful historical events. The Chinese are thought to be the first discoverers. In fact, it was one man, a scientist and emperor of China, Shen Nung, that is thought to first discover tea as a drink. It is said that he had a requirement that his water be boiled before drinking, all for sanitary reasons. However, during one such boiling of water, it was near a bush with dried leaves, and some had fallen into the water, creating a brownish liquid. This prompted Shen Nung to try the tea and enjoyed its taste.

Later, in seclusion a man named Lu Yu had concocted a variety of different preparation and cultivation methods of tea in China. This would later carry into imperial Japan for use by missionaries. Japan's Father of Tea, Yeisei, a Buddhist priest brought tea seeds to Japan for the first time. It was useful, in China as a religious meditation method and he wanted to introduce it to the Japanese.

Eventually, in the history of tea, the drink becomes popular throughout the world. After Japan, Europe was the next to discover tea as a drink. The Portuguese were the first to seek and obtain trade with China for tea. Later Baltic countries, Holland, and France were receiving imports of Chinese tea as well.

In 1650 tea reached America. When the Dutch settled to America, a man by the name of Peter Stuyvesant was the first to bring tea. In fact, in America, more people drank tea than any other country, including Europe.

England was the last one of nations to discover tea. Somewhere in the middle of the 1600's England received its first shipment of tea. Now, thanks to the extreme popularity, tea is Englands national drink, which used to be ale.

Tea plays an important role throughout history, particular in America, which is shown bluntly in the Boston Tea Party. Additionally, it has become a staple of many countries, even more so than coffee, which is consumed by millions of people each day. The history of tea is a long and interesting one. It moves throughout the world, all the result of one scientist who happened upon it by complete accident.

So you see, tea isn't just an interesting drink, it comes steeped in important history and has been at the forefront of many dates in the timeline of man. Most importantly, tea is a healthy drink that can help boost your immune system as well as provide you with nourishment. So the next time you drink that healthy cup of tea, think back about the important role to play in history.

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Both W. Winston & Lee Dobbins are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.

W. Winston has sinced written about articles on various topics from Shopping. Visit for quality, hand knitted, woollen, character tea cosies. Tea Cosy Folk tea cosy designs are exclusive to. W. Winston's top article generates over 3600 views. to your Favourites.

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