The British and Chinese share one distinct cultural trait - a love of fine tea.
Tea arrived in Europe through trade ties and it took very little time before it became extremely popular across the Continent. Today we associate Western tea culture mainly with the English and the exquisite china that the drink is served with.
Afternoon Tea The 7th Duchess of Bedford, Anna (1788-1861) in England is said to be responsible for the idea of having afternoon tea to soothe hunger pangs before supper. At the time, the English had only two main daily meals - breakfast and a long, massive supper in the evenings. The Duchess invited friends to join her for an additional afternoon meal at four to five o'clock. The menu included snacks such as petit cakes, sandwiches and, of course, tea. Fine porcelain was used to serve this minor feast. Afternoon tea parties soon became the perfect venue for social gatherings. This practice is still an integral part of British life today.
High Tea The idea of afternoon tea evolved into high tea among working and farming communities. Traditionally taken late afternoon, this was the main meal of the day for the workers. It featured meats, bread and cakes along with a steaming pot of fresh tea.
Updated 16 February 2006 Copyright
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The British and Chinese share one distinct cultural trait - a love of fine tea.
