Task 1 – Long reading

Read the following text about a global beverage and answer the 15 questions.

The Enduring Story of Tea

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Tea, the world's most consumed beverage after water, boasts a rich history spanning thousands of years, deeply intertwined with culture, trade, and even revolution. Legend has it that tea was discovered by Chinese Emperor Shen Nung around 2737 BCE when tea leaves accidentally fell into his boiling water. While the exact origins are shrouded in myth, tea cultivation and consumption certainly began in China, initially for its medicinal properties. Over centuries, it evolved into a popular drink, playing a central role in Chinese philosophy, art, and social rituals.

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The journey of tea from China to the rest of the world is a testament to its widespread appeal. It first reached Japan in the 9th century, introduced by Buddhist monks, and quickly became an integral part of Japanese culture, leading to the development of elaborate tea ceremonies. European traders, particularly the Dutch and British, brought tea to the West in the 17th century. Its popularity exploded in Britain, where it became a national drink, influencing social customs like afternoon tea and sparking immense demand that drove global trade.

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Tea's historical impact isn't limited to peaceful cultural exchange. Its trade became a significant economic force, leading to intense competition and even conflict. The British East India Company's monopoly on tea trade with China, and later its cultivation in India, played a crucial role in colonial history. Perhaps most famously, the taxation of tea by the British government led to the Boston Tea Party in 1773, a pivotal event that ignited the American Revolution, demonstrating the profound socio-political power of this seemingly simple leaf.

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Today, tea is cultivated in diverse regions worldwide, from the high altitudes of Darjeeling in India to the lush plantations of Kenya and Sri Lanka. The variety of tea is immense, categorised primarily by processing methods into green, black, oolong, and white teas, each offering distinct flavours and aromas. Herbal infusions, though often called "tea," are technically tisanes, as they don't come from the Camellia sinensis plant, the true tea bush. The global tea market continues to innovate, with new blends, ready-to-drink options, and health-focused variations constantly emerging.

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Beyond its economic and historical significance, tea continues to hold deep cultural and social meaning. In many cultures, sharing a cup of tea is a gesture of hospitality, friendship, and respect. It provides a moment of calm and reflection in a busy world, embodying traditions that connect generations. Whether enjoyed in a serene Japanese tea house, a bustling Moroccan market, or a quiet British home, tea remains a universal symbol of comfort, connection, and mindful living.