Splash Biography

Few beverages can be said to have inspired wars, espionage, and war. Even fewer drinks have played a central role in both world history and modern culture. Come learn about the world's most consumed beverage - tea! In this class, we'll be answering pressing questions, such as: How do I brew the perfect cup of tea? And what exactly is oolong, anyways? Besides covering the science, history, and culture of tea, we'll be tasting varieties from around the world. Come experience different ways of drinking tea, from the traditional Chinese tea ceremony to British high tea (with scones, of course!).

In the 12th century, a great Sultanate was established by Turkish Warlords in Northern India and rose up out of Delhi. This was one of the first attempts by any ruler to consolidate major parts of the Indian subcontinent under one rule. With the assistance of their Turkish, Afghan, Persian and Hindu elites, the Sultans faced many threats both internally and externally from the prowling Mongols who terrorized Central Asia. The Sultanate saw the spread of Islam to India, and the rise of a unique and innovative Indic-Islamic culture that combined both ancient Indian and Central Asian traditions. Learn about what the rest of the world did during the European Renaissance, the rise of a great empire, and the foundation of the culture of what is today history’s largest democracy.