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National Beer Day, celebrated every April 7th, marks a pivotal moment in American history; the day in 1933 when the Cullen-Harrison Act came into effect, allowing the legal sale of beer in the United States after 13 long years of Prohibition. This holiday not only commemorates a significant turning point but also celebrates beer's rich and varied tradition, which grows larger each year. There are longer explanations of the history involved, but in case you’re reading this on the toilet in the pub, here is some trivia to sort of impress your friends.
Prohibition's Pause Button
National Beer Day celebrates the Cullen-Harrison Act's enactment, signed by President Franklin D. Roosevelt, who famously said, "I think this would be a good time for a beer." This legislation allowed the sale of 3.2% alcohol by weight (4% by volume), both beer and wine, predating the full repeal of Prohibition by eight months.
First Cheers to Freedom
On April 7, 1933, people across the United States lined up at breweries and pubs to enjoy their first legal beers in over a decade. It's reported that 1.5 million barrels of beer were consumed on that day, symbolizing a collective sigh of relief at a freedom restored.
A Global Affair
While National Beer Day is an American celebration, beer itself is one of the world's oldest prepared beverages, with evidence of beer production dating back to around 5,000 BC in what is now Iran.
Guinness Record Book
The strongest beer ever created boasts a staggering 57.8% alcohol by volume (ABV). Named "Snake Venom," this Scottish brew challenges the notion of beer's mildness in the sort of insane fashion only the Scots would manage.
Presidential Brews
Washington had his own private brewhouse on the grounds of Mount Vernon, Jefferson wrote extensively about brewing, and Obama was the first sitting president to brew beer on the White House grounds. Though some research into the need for the qualifier ‘sitting’ may produce some interesting results.
The Beer Wave
In 1814, a tragic event known as the London Beer Flood occurred when a vat at the Meux and Company Brewery ruptured, releasing a tidal wave of over 323,000 gallons of beer, causing flooded streets and claimed lives. (A similar incident occurred at a whiskey distillery)
A Toast to Health
Historically, beer was seen as a nutritional alternative to water, which was often polluted. Medieval monks even fasted on beer during Lent, arguing its liquid form did not break the fast. The hops currently used in most beer was popularized by Hildegard of Bingen, a Benedictine Abbess in her book Physica. (A surprising amount of drinking culture surrounds medicine, from happy hour to cocktails.)
Economic Powerhouse
The beer industry significantly affects the U.S. economy, supporting millions of jobs across manufacturing, agriculture, and retail sectors.
As you raise your glass this National Beer Day, remember the rich tapestry of history, culture, and innovation that beer is, and make sure you don’t become the next piece of unfortunate trivia.
