Jane Pettigrew

To coincide with the publication of the new edition of A Social History of Tea, Jane Pettigrew and Bruce Richardson will tell the story of tea’s rise in importance in the culture and commerce of Britain and the USA. Through 360 years, tea has grown from its initial role as an expensive aristocratic luxury beverage to become an essential part of everyday life. Along the way it caused civil and international wars, brought about the introduction of new laws and taxes, influenced politics, architecture, interior design, manners, mealtimes and fashion. It affected trade, created wealth, sustained workers through the industrial revolution, gave strength to the temperance movement, and helped women in their fight for the vote. Today, its powerful and positive health message has led to an ever-increasing interest in the world’s favourite restorative, recuperative and refreshing drink.