Ever wondered where coffee originated?
The history of the coffee timeline is a long and exciting story.
Whether you’re a fan of black drip coffee, espresso shots, or something from the ever-growing selection of specialty drinks at your neighborhood café, there is no doubt that this beverage has been delighting us for centuries.
Alright, let’s talk about one of the most popular and beloved beverages in the world – coffee. I mean, who doesn’t love a good cup of joe to start their day, right? But have you ever wondered where coffee originated from?
Well, get ready to join me on a journey back in time as we explore the history of coffee and where coffee originated.
Table of Contents
When Was Coffee First Discovered?
Coffee has been around for a very long time, but the exact date of its discovery is still up for debate.
Some say it was discovered as far back as the 9th century, while others claim it was discovered in the 15th century.
Where Was It First Discovered? Where did Coffee Originate From?
Where coffee originated is often debated.
The birthplace of coffee is believed to be Ethiopia, where coffee plants grow naturally in the wild. While debated to this day, but it is generally accepted that coffee originated there.
Legend has it that a goat herder in Ethiopia named Kaldi noticed that his goats were particularly energetic after eating the berries from a certain plant. Curious, he tried the berries himself and found that they had the same effect on him. And thus, the first cup of coffee was brewed.
Ethiopia and Coffee
Ethiopia is still a major player in the coffee industry today, with the country producing some of the best coffee beans in the world.
Ethiopian coffee is known for its fruity and floral notes, and it’s a favorite among coffee enthusiasts. In fact, Ethiopia is so proud of its coffee heritage that it declared coffee as its national drink in 2006.
Isn’t Coffee Originally from India?
Contrary to popular belief, coffee did not originate in India. Although India has a long history with coffee, the coffee plant was actually brought to India by Muslim pilgrims from Yemen in the 16th century.
From there, coffee cultivation spread throughout the country, and India is now one of the largest coffee producers in the world.
Where Else Does Coffee Come From in the World?
Coffee is grown in various parts of the world, including South and Central America, Africa, and Asia. Each region has its own unique coffee flavors, which are influenced by factors such as soil type, altitude, and climate. Some of the top coffee-producing countries in the world include Brazil, Colombia, Ethiopia, and Vietnam.
Which Country First Drank Coffee?
The first country to drink coffee was actually Yemen. After coffee was discovered in Ethiopia, it was brought to Yemen by Arab traders.
Yemen quickly became a hub for the coffee trade, and the beverage became an important part of Yemeni culture.
When Did Coffee Come to Europe?
Coffee was introduced to Europe in the 16th century, and it quickly gained popularity among the wealthy elite. The first coffeehouse in Europe opened in Venice in 1645
See below for our full timeline.
The history of the coffee timeline begins over 1200 years ago!
Full History Of Coffee Timeline
- Early 900: Kaldi, an intrepid 9th-century goat herder from the Ethiopian kingdom of Kaffa, was responsible for one of history’s most remarkable discoveries: coffee. On a fateful day, while tending his goats, he noticed they were exuberant and energized after tasting bright yellow and red berries on a mid-sized dark green shrubbery – as if by magic! Little did he know this “magical” finding would change our world forever.
- 900 – 1100 A.D .: For centuries, the Galla has relied on a unique energy source – specially-crafted berry and fat patties. These delicacies are made by grinding up berries from coffee trees with animal fat to fuel them throughout their day.
- 1000 A.D.: As coffee began to spread throughout the ancient world, Arab traders were some of its most influential pioneers. Rather than just transporting beans, they brought with them living plants and tamed them in their homeland – a practice that allowed for delicate flavors and lively aromas not seen before.
- 1475: In the bustling city of Constantinople, a revolutionary concept was born – Kiva Han, the world’s very first coffee shop. This establishment sparked an international curiosity for this exotic drink and ushered in a new era of caffeinated pleasure!
- 1511: By attempting to prohibit its people from consuming coffee, Khair Beg, the evil governor of Mecca, quickly found himself on a collision course with fate. Sultan’s declaration met his attempts that coffee was holy and not subject to his decrees – sealing his doom as he faced execution for this violation.
- 1600: In the early 17th century, coffee began circulating across Venice after Italian traders brought it from foreign lands. Despite some Papal advisers urging Pope Clement VIII to banish this so-called “infidel threat,” he chose to bestow his blessing upon it and make coffee a good drink for Christians worldwide.
- 1607: Captain John Smith was a daring explorer and true pioneer; not only did he help establish the first Virginia colony at Jamestown, but under his leadership, coffee also made its way into North America for the very first time.
- 1645: Italy has opened its doors to a revolutionary new cafe – the first of its kind. This esteemed establishment welcomes locals and tourists, offering an unparalleled atmosphere with delicious coffee drinks, baked goods, and conversation. Revel in Italian culture at this unique spot!
- 1652: In 1652, England experienced a revolution in social gathering – the first ever coffeehouse arrived! This new spot allowed folks to meet and converse over hot drinks made from an exotic bean that had recently been introduced. It was only natural for this establishment’s popularity to soar as it gave individuals yet another avenue for exchanging ideas.
- 1668: New Yorkers started their day with a warm cup of coffee instead of the traditional beer in a groundbreaking move. Coffee has quickly become one of the city’s most popular breakfast beverages!
- 1668: Edward Lloyd opened a humble coffeehouse in England that would eventually become renowned worldwide. This small business gradually flourished into what we now know as arguably one of the most famous and influential insurance companies: Lloyd’s of London. Guests included many merchants and maritime insurance agents drawn to its unique services relative to local offerings at the time.
- 1672: The first coffeehouse opened its doors in Paris. This event began a new and exciting chapter for one of the world’s favorite beverages – introducing it as a social hub where people could gather, converse with each other, and enjoy a refreshing cup of joe!
- 1683: After the Ottoman Turkish Army was forced to retreat from the Siege of Vienna, Viennese hero Franz Georg Kolschitzky seized an opportunity and opened Vienna’s first coffee house using bags of abandoned coffee beans left behind by his foes.
- 1690: After centuries of trading, the Dutch finally made their move to set themselves apart in coffee history. In a daring effort full of espionage and risk-taking, they managed to clandestinely smuggle an exotic plant out from Mocha’s port – one that would later be cultivated into what we know now as commercial coffee.
- 1721: Berliners were delighted when, in 1721, the city’s inaugural coffee house opened its doors! This ushered in a new era of socializing and enjoying quality java.
- 1727: It all began when Lieutenant colonel Francisco de Melo Palheta received a gift from the French Guiana governor’s wife – not just any present, but one with an unexpected (and delicious) surprise. Inside her bouquet was coffee cuttings and seeds that helped launch the Brazilian coffee industry!
- 1773: Following the infamous Boston Tea Party, coffee experienced a surge in popularity as citizens made it their patriotic duty to sip this steaming hot beverage bravely.
- 1775: To improve the Prussian economy, Frederick the Great attempted to restrict imports of green coffee; however, due to public pressure, he was soon forced into a change of heart.
- Beginning of the 20th century: Every day in Germany, people take a break to indulge in the comforting tradition of afternoon coffee. As if an old friend were paying them a visit, they enjoy this special moment with all its anticipation and reward.
- 1900 : As coffee consumption rapidly increased, Hills Bros. revolutionized the industry by introducing innovative vacuum tins to package their roast coffee – bringing an end to local roasting shops and mills that had served communities for generations.
- Early 1900s: In the early 20th century, Satori Kato from Chicago made history with his innovative invention – instant coffee! The Japanese-American chemist achieved what many thought would be impossible: creating a product that could deliver an authentic cup of joe in an incredibly convenient form. His creation revolutionized how people enjoy their morning rituals and forever changed our love affair with caffeine.
- Early 1900s : Ludwig Roselius and his team of researchers revolutionized coffee drinking with their invention of Sanka – an innovative decaffeinated brew that quickly spread throughout Europe.
- 1906 : George Constant Washington, an English chemist living in Guatemala, revolutionized the coffee industry when he created the first instant coffee ever produced on a mass scale. His invention has since made it possible for people to enjoy their favorite cup of joe without having to go through long brewing processes.
- 1920: During the Prohibition era, Americans adopted coffee as a way of finding an illicit buzz while still staying within legal boundaries. This fun and flavorful beverage became so popular that sales skyrocketed to unprecedented levels.
- 1938: Nestle revolutionized the way Brazilians drank coffee in 1938 when they invented Nescafe, which was developed from freeze-dried coffee. This new method allowed them to preserve their excess supply and gave a convenient option for consumers around the world who wanted to enjoy cafe-style beverages at home.
- 1940 : America has a strong caffeine fix, as we rely heavily on the global coffee crop – 70% of it in fact, Imported!
- 1940s : During World War II, American soldiers were treated to a comforting taste of home with instant Maxwell House coffee in their ration kits. Meanwhile, on the domestic front, anxiety over shortages caused citizens to hoard supplies which led the government to introduce strict rationing initiatives for staples like coffee.
- 1946 : In Italy, a pioneering engineer named Achilles Gaggia revolutionizes how people enjoy coffee. He perfects an espresso machine that will come to define cafe culture around the world and serve as a staple of Italian life for generations.
- 1970s : In 1971, Starbucks opened the doors to its first store in Seattle’s renowned Pike Place public market – forever changing the way Americans enjoy their coffee.
- 2023 : With a presence in over 80 countries around the globe, Starbucks’ global reach is impressive. In 2022, their coffeehouses spanned 35,711 stores; an overwhelming majority located outside of its native United States!
Finally…
Hopefully, now you know a bit more about where coffee originated from, and a little more about the history of coffee throughout the ages, if you want to learn more check out our article on how long caffeine stays in your system!
