The Social History of Bourbon

by Gerald Carson, Mike Veach (Forward)

The distinctive beverage of the Western world, bourbon is Kentucky's illustrious gift to the world of spirits. Although the story of American whiskey is recorded in countless lively pages of our nation's history, the place of bourbon in the American cultural record has long awaited detailed and objective presentation. Not a recipe book or a barman's guide, but a fascinating and informative contribution to Americana, The Social History of Bourbon reflects an aspect of our national cultural identity that many have long suppressed or overlooked. Gerald Carson explores the impact of the liquor's presence during America's early development, as well as bourbon's role in some of the more dramatic events in American history, including the Whiskey Rebellion, the scandals of the Whiskey Ring, and the "whiskey forts" of the fur trade. The Social History of Bourbon is a revealing look at the role of this classic beverage in the development of American manners and culture.

Genres: History, Food

320 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1963

Reviews

[Paul Hedeen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Carson's book is more of a functionalist sociological history than a traditional academic history. In other words, Bourbon, that saintly Kentucky elixir, is, moving through time, the sum of relationships between various customers, makers, distributors, controllers, healers, rascals, and faith-merchants. Carson describes how this tasty and powerful distillate has abetted our best and worst impulses, at times promoting health and progress, at other times befuddlement and ruin in America's social, political, and economic processes. Carson is deft and good-humored, with a light but smart prose style. This is a great book for tipplers who want to know more about makes bourbon America's national refreshment, institution, product, and blessing.

[J. Scott Frampton · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a fun book to read, especially while enjoying a dram of bourbon. A deep and rich history that is well referenced and explained. Good illustrations and what seems to be a complete chronological history, and overview, of bourbon.

[Phoenixrisingoverafriendlyninja · Rating 5 out of 5]

And Published in the good ol' K-Y too. If you want to impress your drinkin' buddies . .then all you need is this and a bottle. Takes me back to a time when social drinking/conversation was a cultural/intellectual art form.