18th Century Tea Trade

In the 18th century, tea became a highly sought-after commodity, especially in Europe, where it was popularized by the British aristocracy. The British East India Company dominated the tea trade, importing large quantities from China. This led to significant economic and political impacts, including the imposition of taxes, which sparked colonial unrest in America. To counteract Chinese dominance, the British began cultivating tea in India. The trade not only influenced global economies but also social customs, as tea-drinking became a central aspect of daily life in many cultures, particularly in Britain, paving the way for the modern tea culture we know today.