Nineteen Centuries of Drink in England: A History

"Nineteen Centuries of Drink in England: A History" by Richard Valpy French is a historical account likely written in the late 19th century. The work explores the evolution and role of alcoholic beverages in English society, examining customs, drinking vessels, and the regulation of alcohol consumption by both Church and State over the centuries. It aims to provide a comprehensive overview of how drink has influenced national life and customs throughout English history. The opening of this historical account introduces the author's objective of tracing the impact of alcoholic beverages on English culture from ancient Roman times. French references various ancient historians to paint a picture of pre-Roman Britain, detailing the dietary habits and early drinks such as mead and ale. He discusses the introduction of wine and the consequent changes in drinking customs due to Roman influences, emphasizing how drinking became intertwined with social practices and governance. The groundwork set here establishes the significance of drink as a cultural constant, shaping both individual and communal identities in England.