"Imperial Measures: British Drinking Cultures, Past and Present"

'‘Imperial Measures: British Drinking Cultures, Past and Present’' with Dr Sam Goodman

Summary

Wherever the British went in the name of Empire, alcohol was never far behind them. Drinking was an integral part of everyday life and the expression of British character, especially in Colonial India, and such habits have left a long and lasting hangover into the present.

This talk will explore the history of drink and Empire and its legacy in modern craft beer to ask whether their ongoing popularity is merely a successful marketing tug on the nation’s patriotic heartstrings or representative of a peculiarly British taste for nostalgia.

Bio

Dr Sam Goodman is Senior Tutor in Humanities at University of Bristol, and a Co-Director of the Drinking Studies Network. He is the author of The Retrospective Raj: Medicine, Literature & History after Empire (2022), and British Spy Fiction and the End of Empire (2016) and is a BBC/AHRC New Generation Thinker.

Venue:
The White Harte
54-58 Park Row, Bristol BS1 5LH

Event Running Time:
Doors 2:00pm
Introduction: 2:25pm
Lecture: 2:30pm
Q&A: 3:10pm
End: 3:30pm

Food:
If you plan on eating at the venue, we recommend arriving as early as possible so the kitchen can get your order out before the talk starts.

FAQ

What is Pints of Knowledge?

Pints of Knowledge is a series of public talks where experts, researchers, and big thinkers share fascinating ideas all in the relaxed setting of a pub. We bring brilliant minds and curious audiences together over a pint, covering topics from science and politics to history, art, and beyond.

What happens at Pints of Knowledge?

At each Pints of Knowledge event, you’ll hear engaging talks (about 40 minutes) from expert speakers on fascinating topics — followed by audience Q&A. The vibe is informal and social, set in a pub where you can grab a drink, meet interesting people, and enjoy big ideas in a relaxed setting.

What if I don't drink alcohol?

No problem at all! Pints of Knowledge is all about the ideas and the community, not the drinks. You’re welcome to enjoy a soft drink, coffee, or whatever you prefer. The focus is on creating a relaxed, social atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable

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Tickets must be purchased online prior to the event. With our limited capacity at each venue we can't let people in without a ticket.

Is there food available?

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We issue full ticket refunds if you have requested 7 days before the event. Any requests after will be at the discretion of the event organiser.

Is the event dog friendly?

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