Americana Ebrietatis: The Favorite Tipple of our Forefathers and the Laws and Customs Relating Thereto

"Americana Ebrietatis" by Hewson L. Peeke is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book explores the traditional American drinking customs and the evolution of laws and sentiments related to alcohol in society. Peeke discusses the connection between alcohol consumption, social practices, and influential figures throughout American history, particularly in the context of the liquor commerce and its social implications. The opening of Americana Ebrietatis provides an overview of the drinking habits of early American colonists, detailing different regional customs linked to race and cultural background. It examines how various immigrant groups favored specific alcoholic beverages—such as beer, wine, and cider—over water due to health concerns, positioning alcohol as a staple in daily life. The text sets the stage for a broader discussion about how alcohol was intertwined with significant social events, cultural practices, and even governance, establishing a framework for understanding the changing views on the liquor trade in America that the author aims to clarify throughout the rest of the work.