Coffee culture in America

Coffee was first brought to America in 1733 by what was known as the Boston Party in 1773. The revolt against King George II generated a noticeable switch from tea to coffee amongst the colonists, resulting in the expansion of American coffee.

By the early 18th century, coffee had become one of the world’s largest profitable commodities. The consumption of American coffee grew to become especially prevalent during the Civil War, ultimately attracting the interest of savvy businessmen who understood coffee’s potential.

Among some of the most famous American coffee sellers are the Pittsburgh-born brothers known as John and Charles Arbuckle. The brothers began selling pre-roasted American coffee to cowboys in the west. Another American coffee seller at the time was James Folger, selling American coffee to gold miners in California. Other large coffee house brands such as Maxwell House and Hills Brothers were also among America’s early successful coffee sellers. The success of coffee during the post-Civil War era was the advance America needed to introduce coffee crops and coffee culture that has been sustained for centuries.

Today, American coffee culture is still going strong. A popular movement with independently owned coffee shops turning coffee into something of an art form. These small local coffee shops use specially selected and locally roasted beans. American coffee culture is just as much about the flavour of the coffee, as it is about how it’s grown, where it’s roasted and how it’s brewed.

The coffee culture associated with American coffee is one of speed and quantity, in comparison to other coffee cultures such as Italy, where coffee is about relaxation and enjoyment. It’s estimated that Americans drink an average three cups of American coffee a day.

The rise of remote working has transformed the coffee culture of American society. Cafés are now seen as places to work efficiently with high-speed internet and refreshments on hand. There are many who spend hours in coffee shops, getting their work done, hosting important meetings, and indulging in the efficiency and convenience of ready-to-drink coffee. Unlike the sound of conversation amongst friends which is present in most coffee shops around the world, American coffee shops are generally more quiet.