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Where Did Sweet Tea Originate? Tracing the Roots of a Southern Tradition

Where Did Sweet Tea Originate? Tracing the Roots of a Southern Tradition

Sweet tea has deep roots in Southern culture and tradition, but where did it originate? While the exact origins of sweet tea are unclear, it's believed to have evolved from a combination of British tea-drinking customs and African brewing techniques brought to the American South during the colonial era. Early versions of sweet tea were likely made with green tea and sweetened with honey or molasses, reflecting the availability of ingredients and cultural influences of the time. Over the years, sweet tea became synonymous with Southern hospitality and cuisine, evolving into the beloved beverage enjoyed by millions. Summerville, South Carolina is recognized as the official "Birthplace of Sweet Tea." For decades, the refreshing drink was believed to have been invented in St. Louis at the World's Fair in 1904.

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