Tuesday Beer Trivia: Beer in Wartime

Question 1: The IPA grew in popularity, inspiring many British brewers even though the style had nearly died in the UK before Bert Grant of Yakima, Wash. came up with an American version in 1982. (“How the India Pale Ale Got its Name” by William Bostwick. Smithsonian Magazine.)

Question 2: The brew boats were created in anticipation of beer shortages while at war in the Pacific, which is where the English mild made its nautical debut. The boats were capable of making 250 barrels of beer per week using malt extract. They had initially planned to have four floating breweries, but due to technical problems, that number shrunk to two (think exploding drums of extract) after atomic bombs were dropped on Hiroshima and Japan surrendered in August 1945. The beer wasn’t set to be ready for consumption until December of that year, hence the slightly meaningless voyage to dispense the beer that was brewed in “Davy Jones Brewery.” After a swift six months, the brew boat was dismantled and hasn’t been attempted since. (“Beer Goes to War” by Alan Moen. All About Beer Magazine.)

Question 3: True. This was, indeed, a mandate. During WWII, rationing began nearly immediately after the attack on Pearl Harbor. Nearly all consumer products were rationed with the exception of dairy and eggs. The United States’ industrial strength and capacity gave it an advantage as shifts to a total war mentality increased production in the industrial sector. (“A farewell to sobriety, part two: drinking during World War II” by Jake Hall. Molotov Cocktail Blog)

Question 4: 2.75% may seem like nothing, but the perspective on beer production and rationing was vastly different during WWI than WWII. World War I posed a direct threat to the industry, while WWII reflected the nation resurrecting out of the Great Depression to contribute to the booming war economy. In WWII, per capita consumption of beer went up 50% compared to WWI. (“A Concise History of America’s Brewing Industry” by Martin H. Stack)

Question 5: In many ways, beer inspired a revolution and George Washington recognized that. Colonial life was centered on gatherings in pubs and taverns, and historians have referred to “beer fueling the flames of freedom burning within its armies.” A statute enacted in November of 1775 provided each soldier with “1 quart of Spruce beer or Cider/man/day.” While George Washington was a fan of supplying beer to his troops, he put a ban on whiskey for fear of drunkenness. (“Beer Goes to War” by Alan Moen. All About Beer Magazine.)