General Knowledgespeaking topic

Coffee was the Islamic world's secret until it was smuggled out of Yemen; when it reached Europe some wanted it banned as 'the devil's drink,' but the Pope tasted it and gave his blessing. Coffeehouses became the birthplace of revolutions, newspapers, and stock exchanges. Can a beverage speed up history simply by bringing people together?

the social history of coffee

practice with this topic

Set the timer (5-30 min), take 20 seconds of prep if you like, start talking. Jot your thoughts onto the sticky-note board.