Keyword: The History of Tea

The History of Tea

Drinking tea began in India, China, and Japan nearly 5,000 years ago. Dutch ships coming from China were the first to bring tea to Europe. Tea arrived in England in the 17th Century.

Tea drinking quickly became popular with the people of England. In the 1600s many people died from the Plague, but boiled water for tea was safe to drink.

Tea became so important in England, that the British built some of the biggest and fastest ships in the world to bring the tea from China more quickly. These were called Clipper Ships.

Afternoon tea is usually around 4:00pm, just before dinner. With afternoon tea, little snacks are served. The tradition of afternoon tea started in the 18th century as a way to keep the hunger away before dinner.