Drinking America

The history of modern America… With a twist.

In December 1933, the "Noble Experiment" of Prohibition ended, having run America's alcohol industry into the ground. Nevertheless, the drinks were flowing on December 5th: “Repeal Day” celebrations took place and criminal bootleggers pivoted their profits into new, legitimate businesses. And the party was only just getting started... The history of America over the past century is deeply intertwined with its alcoholic proclivities. From the beer-fueled euphoria that greeted the end of Prohibition, to the celebrity-endorsed spirits of the 2020s, Americans have moved through each decade with a drink in their hands.

Steven Parissien’s Drinking America examines how contemporary American spirit is defined and revealed by each of the most iconic beverages. Together, these twelve drinks tell a tale of the social aspiration, political upheaval and product innovation that characterized the 20th century. The story of the all-American beverage is the story of America itself—served straight up.

Dr Steven Parissien is Fellow of Kellogg College, Oxford and a lecturer in Architectural History at Oxford University. Steven worked in senior management in arts and education for over thirty years, including ten years as CEO of Compton Verney Art Gallery and Park in Warwickshire. He has written extensively on cultural history across fourteen titles, his most recent being Another Round (2025).

© 2027 Steven Parissien (P) 2027 DK Audio