From Ethiopia to Europe's Coffee Houses
Coffee's journey began in Ethiopia, where the legend of the goat herder Kaldi—whose goats became energetic after eating coffee berries—marked its start. In the 15th century, coffee reached Arabia, where "qahveh khaneh" became the first coffee houses. Here, people gathered for lively discussions about politics and philosophy, earning the nickname "schools of thought." In the 17th century, coffee conquered Europe through trading cities like Venice. Coffee houses spread to London, Paris, and Vienna and became known as "penny universities"—places where a cup of coffee bought access to Enlightenment ideas about liberty, science, and democracy.

Coffee and the Industrial Revolution
During the Industrial Revolution in the 18th and 19th centuries, coffee became indispensable. Factory workers relied on its stimulation to endure long shifts, while coffee houses became hubs for business and innovation. Entrepreneurs and merchants met here, and many of the era's major deals were conceived over steaming cups.

Politics and Global Trade
Coffee houses were also breeding grounds for political change. In Europe, they fostered revolutionary thoughts in the 17th and 18th centuries—from France's revolts to England's reforms. Later, coffee became a global trade giant, second only to oil, with countries like Brazil and Colombia rising as economic powers, while coffee linked cultures across continents.

Coffee Today
Today, coffee is more than a drink—it's a lifestyle. Modern cafes serve as social and creative spaces where people work, meet, and create. The "third wave" movement elevates coffee to an art form with a focus on quality and sustainability, while digitalization turns coffee shops into mobile offices for a global workforce.

A Driving Force Through History
From its humble beginnings in Ethiopia, coffee has been a catalyst for science, politics, and society. It hasn't just kept us awake—it has set the wheels of civilization in motion. Next time you take a sip, think about its role in shaping the world.