Yerba Mate: The Drink That Shaped a Nation

Yerba mate is a popular caffeinated beverage with a long and storied history, celebrated in Argentina. This book explores its history, consumption, and cultural importance from precolonial times to the present, highlighting its association with rural people and the poor, and its resurgence in the late twentieth century.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 394 pages
Publication date: 24 January 2023
Publisher: University of California Press

Yerba mate, a beloved caffeinated beverage, holds a special place in the hearts of people worldwide. Once labeled as a "devil's drink" by Spanish missionaries in South America, it later gained recognition as "green gold" by capitalists and politicians. With a rich and storied history, yerba mate has a unique place in Argentina's culture.

In her book, "Yerba Mate: The History of an Iconic Beverage in Argentina," Julia Sarreal delves into the captivating story of yerba mate in Argentina, spanning from the precolonial period to the present. She meticulously documents the consumption, production, and cultural significance of this beverage throughout different eras.

From its Indigenous roots to its widespread popularity during the colonial era, yerba mate has been intertwined with the lives of rural people and the poor. In the late nineteenth century, it gained a reputation as a symbol of resilience and unity among these groups. However, it experienced a decline in popularity during the twentieth century until its resurgence in recent years.

Sarreal's book offers a comprehensive exploration of yerba mate's history, shedding light on its social and cultural implications. It explores the ways in which yerba mate has shaped Argentine identity, fostering a sense of community and belonging among its drinkers. The book also delves into the economic and political aspects of yerba mate production and consumption, highlighting its role in shaping the country's economy and politics.

"Yerba Mate: The History of an Iconic Beverage in Argentina" is a definitive work on the history of yerba mate and a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the cultural and social significance of this beloved beverage. It provides a rich and nuanced perspective on the past, present, and future of yerba mate in Argentina, making it an invaluable resource for scholars, researchers, and enthusiasts alike.

Weight: 544g
Dimension: 229 x 152 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780520379282