Tesoros de Mexico: Tequila

Tequila

Tequila is synonymous with Mexican culture and history. It was the first distilled drink, as well as the first commercially produced drink in North America. Tequila is named after a city in the state of Jalisco, from which the agave plant (where the alcohol is distilled from) is located. Agave is a multi-use plant; including, distilled alcohol, for rope, clothes, and paper.

Tequila dates back to the 1500s, but it wasn’t until the 1600s that tequila took the form as we know it today. Jose Cuervo Sr was the first man to cultivate agave plants to create tequila. He was given the land by the King of Spain in 1758. Two hundred and fifty-three years later, his company is the largest manufacturer of tequila.

Tequila was the symbol of national pride during the Mexican Revolution of 1902. During the Prohibition in America, it gained popularity as it was smuggled across the border. During World War II, the Mexican government began to regulate the tequila market. In 1944, the government decreed that anything called “tequila” had to be made in Jalisco. Today it is recognized around the world, always bringing back the idea of Mexico.

By Jessica Shakarian

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