Of all the stereotypical tokens of England, like the London Bridge, Buckingham Palace and double-decker busses, and tea tops the list. Tea is to England what apple pie is to America. English tea is steeped in tradition and more than a beverage of choice; it's also an important element in the social history of Britain. English High Tea is one of these traditions that are still an important element in the life of the British elite. Many people imitate the practice of serving English high tea, but it's not easy to duplicate it. There are North American resorts, hotels and tearooms that will offer "English High Tea" with an array of sweets and pastries. These early afternoon parties are certainly elegant, but they are not bona fide "high teas". Exploring the proper method of serving English high tea begins with a little history lesson. Many years ago, the practice of taking high tea was introduced as the people of England enjoyed a morning breakfast and evening dinner as their two daily meals. Breakfast meals usually consisted of bread, beef and ale. The evening meal, however, was a veritable smorgasbord. This meal was served as the sun began to set, and would come to be known as "high tea". English high tea, as we know it, was introduced by a woman named Anna, Duchess of Bedford. The duchess was fond of inviting friends to visit for dinner, where she would practice with the menu and serve high tea. Other ladies of society began to follow suit, and eventually "high tea" became a popular time for social gatherings. Popularity of the English high tea gained momentum during Industrial Revolution, the second half of the Victorian Period. Working men and women returned home exhausted and prepared high tea for refreshment. The table was set with quick and easy food choices including bread and butter, cheese, meat, pickles and of course, a pot of tea. There were no fancy finger foods, tiny crust-less sandwiches or rich desserts that adorn today's mock "high tea" tables. The evening dinner tea was served at a high dining table, rather than on lower tea tables, which may have led to the name of "high" tea. If you want to impress your North American friends with a high tea party, some fancy sandwiches and sweets should do the trick. But if you're ever called to task and serve high tea to British guests, wait until the afternoon sun begins to fade, and serve your tea with some hearty fare. You'll score high points for your English high tea.
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