Thomas Sullivan

Thomas Sullivan was an American entrepreneur best known for his role in popularizing the tea bag. In the early 1900s, he shipped samples of tea in small silk pouches to customers. When recipients mistakenly thought these pouches were meant to be emptied into teapots, they discovered the convenience of steeping tea directly in the bag. This simple idea transformed tea drinking, making it easier and more convenient for consumers worldwide. Sullivan’s innovation led to the widespread adoption of tea bags, fundamentally changing how tea is prepared and enjoyed.