Coffee is one of the most beloved beverages in the world today, but throughout history, it has faced controversy, bans, and even religious opposition. Some rulers and religious leaders saw coffee as a threat, leading to temporary bans in various countries. But why was coffee banned, and what were the reasons behind these prohibitions? Let’s explore the fascinating history of coffee bans.
1. Coffee Was Banned in Mecca (16th Century)
In 1511, the governor of Mecca, Khair Beg, banned coffee because he feared that its stimulating effects would encourage rebellious behavior. Coffeehouses were popular places where people gathered to discuss politics, culture, and social issues, making the ruling class uneasy. Authorities saw coffee as a possible threat to their control.
However, the ban didn’t last long. In 1524, the Ottoman Sultan Selim I overturned the ban, allowing coffee to be consumed again in the Islamic world.
2. Coffee Was Seen as the “Devil’s Drink” in 17th-Century Europe
When coffee arrived in Europe in the 1600s, some Christian leaders were suspicious of it. They called it the “devil’s drink” because it was introduced by Muslim traders. In Italy, some clergy members even asked the Pope to ban coffee, claiming it was an evil beverage.
However, Pope Clement VIII decided to try coffee before making a decision. He reportedly loved its taste and declared that coffee was safe to drink. His approval helped coffee spread across Europe.
3. The Ottoman Empire’s Coffee Ban (17th Century)
The Ottoman Empire played a key role in spreading coffee throughout the world, but it also saw coffee bans at times. In 1623, Sultan Murad IV banned coffee, alcohol, and tobacco. He viewed coffeehouses as places where political discussions could lead to rebellion. Anyone caught drinking coffee could face severe punishment—including execution!
After Murad IV’s death, the strict ban was lifted, and coffee culture flourished once again in the empire.
4. Coffee Was Banned in Sweden (18th Century)
Sweden had one of the strangest coffee bans in history. In 1746, King Gustav III tried to discourage coffee drinking by imposing heavy taxes on coffee and coffee-related equipment. Later, he banned coffee completely, believing it was a dangerous drink that harmed public health.
To prove his point, he ordered an experiment: Two prisoners were sentenced to drink coffee every day while doctors observed their health. Ironically, both prisoners outlived the doctors and the king himself! Eventually, coffee bans in Sweden failed, and today the country is one of the biggest coffee consumers in the world.
5. The Prussian Coffee Ban (18th Century)
In 1777, King Frederick the Great of Prussia tried to limit coffee consumption because he believed it was hurting beer sales. He argued that beer was a traditional and healthier drink, while coffee was a foreign luxury. To discourage coffee drinking, he launched a campaign promoting beer as the superior beverage.
Despite his efforts, people continued drinking coffee, and the ban was largely ignored.
6. Coffee Prohibition in Germany (19th Century)
In the 1800s, coffee became too popular among the working class in Germany, and some rulers feared it would make people less dependent on traditional drinks like beer. Authorities tried to control coffee consumption, but the bans never succeeded.
7. Coffee Ban in 20th-Century Italy (Under Mussolini)
During World War II, Italian dictator Benito Mussolini discouraged coffee drinking because he saw it as a foreign influence. However, coffee was already deeply rooted in Italian culture, and the ban was unsuccessful. Today, Italy is famous for its espresso culture.
Conclusion: Coffee Always Wins
Despite facing bans, religious opposition, and government restrictions, coffee has survived and thrived throughout history. It has been a symbol of revolution, culture, and intellectual discussion, making it one of the most influential beverages in the world.