A drunk trip throughout history
Imagine a world in which our ancestors not only went down from the trees to escape the predators, but also did it with a good drink of fermented fruits. It seems a script for a comedy, but science tells us that alcohol has had a crucial role in human evolution, and yes, it could even be responsible for our social life!
The revealing drunk monkey theory
In 2014, researcher Robert Dudley launched a theory that left more than one in the bar of the bar thinking. In his book ‘The drunk monkey. Why do we drink and abuse alcohol? ‘
Advantages of a drink
For our ancient primates, enjoying a good fermented handle was like finding unlimited buffet: they were easier to locate, they were energetically richer and offered antiseptic properties. One more reason to try a cocktail in nature.
Beer or bread? The great debate
When talking about the roots of civilization, Martin Zarnkow, a teacher who probably spends too much time next to beer at his university, questions the notion that beer was a secondary product of bread. Findings in a remote Sanctuary in Türkiye suggest that it might be the other way around.
Archaeological revelations
From the fermentation of grains to the creation of beer, archaeologists are convinced that the impulse for the production of alcoholic beverages could have been an engine of agriculture itself, in a vicious circle of cultivation and celebration.
Homo Imbibens: The evolution of a novel drinker
Can you imagine being known as ‘Homo Imbibens’? This term coined by archaeologist Patrick McGovern not only sounds fun, but suggests that alcohol craving led our ancestors to the agricultural revolution. From fermenting fruits to the legendary ‘Kumis’, the search for ‘drink’ was essential.
Alcohol: Friend and enemy
Even with all the benefits suggesting that the wine could be the nectar that gave life to our culture, not everything is a party. As we move towards the Middle Ages, the distillation process resulted in more concentrated drinks that began to bring more damages than advantages.
The price of pleasure
Today, the World Health Organization warns us that average consumption is increasing. In the US, alcohol abuse costs about 249 billion dollars a year. Forget celebration beers and think about social repercussions.
Final reflections: the wine of our future
Despite the ups and downs in our relationship with alcohol, it is unquestionable that its history has been fundamental to sculpt the history of mankind. Perhaps we should not forget the place it occupies in our food, celebrations and, of course, in our evolution. So, the next time you will raise a drink, remember: You are providing for your ancestors!
