"The Vertue of the COFFEE Drink": An Ad for London's First Cafe Printed Circa 1652
Briefly

Coffee's rich history traces back to the 13th century in Ethiopia, later spreading to Yemen, the Middle East, and Europe by the 17th century, despite initial doubts about its effects. In Venice, it faced backlash, even being labeled 'the bitter invention of Satan.' However, the Pope’s approval helped bolster its acceptance, leading to the establishment of the first London café in 1652, thanks to Sicilian immigrant Pasqua Rosée. The British Museum houses the first advertising document for coffee in England, marking its prominence in Western diet and advertising norms that echo through time.
The introduction of coffee in England, showcased by the first advertisement, signified the beginning of a cultural shift and the drink's international journey.
Despite early controversy in Europe, coffee quickly became a beloved staple, endorsed even by the Pope and leading to the opening of the first café in London.
Read at Open Culture
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