This is the story of how our desire for beer drove us through history, from the beginning until today. Because so many people wanted it so much beer has been a major source of power throughout history, from prehistoric chieftains to modern Japan. Beer gave the Netherlands the power to become an independent country, and the British Empire was built on beer. The book uses government statistics to show these are not empty claims.

By tracing the long lines the book makes beer history make sense, showing how beer evolved over time, and debunking many old myths along the way. Learn how people used to drink beer against thirst every day, not just in the Middle Ages, but before and after. How women used to be the home brewers, but were replaced by men when brewing became business, not just once, but several times in different countries. And how beer was part of the foundations of the Inca Empire and the Hanseatic League.

This short history is beautifully illustrated and easy to read, and perfectly suited to beer novices, yet contains much that will be new even to specialist beer historians.