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Beer is often considered one of humanity’s oldest beverages, with its origins dating back over 5,000 years to ancient Sumeria (modern-day Iraq). The earliest evidence of brewing comes from Sumerian tablets, which feature recipes for brewing a rudimentary form of beer made from barley. In those days, beer was a staple of daily life and was consumed not just for enjoyment but as a vital source of nutrition.The Sumerians brewed their beer using barley and emmer wheat, creating a thick, porridge-like beverage. This early version of beer was much different from today’s clear, carbonated drinks—it was often served in a communal bowl and consumed with straws. Beer also had a spiritual significance, with the goddess Ninkasi considered the patron deity of brewing.The Sumerians even dedicated hymns to Ninkasi, singing of her role in creating beer, showcasing how deeply intertwined beer was with their culture and religion. Brewing techniques were passed down through generations, eventually spreading to other ancient civilizations and evolving into the beers we know today.