114 學年度學測英文 第 45 題

Russia is widely portrayed as the most alcohol-dependent country in the world. Critics of the country say that drinking is almost an inherent trait of the Russian people. However, there is more to the story.

The consumption of alcoholic beverages was unusual in ancient Russia. Before the adoption of Christianity in Russia (10th century), there were no vineyards and therefore no wine. People only drank beverages with low alcohol content. Vodka, Russia's national drink, was not a Russian invention. The liquid was originally a grape alcohol introduced from France in the late 14th century. The first Russian-made vodka appeared in the 15th century, and the drink remained relatively low in alcohol content until the mid-18th century.

There is contradictory information about Russians' inclination toward alcohol in the 15th and 16th centuries. Some documents noted that Russians "indulge in excessive drinking whenever the occasion arises," while others claimed that Russians "rarely drink wine." The heaviest drinkers in medieval Europe were actually Germans. There were many sayings about their desire for alcohol, such as "drunk as a German."

The Russian state played a significant role in the spread of alcohol consumption in the country. In the 19th century, the emperors began to establish a state monopoly, largely due to the rise of illegal production of low-quality vodka. Thus, only the government was permitted to produce the alcohol. This soon filled the state treasury with huge revenues, but it also encouraged vodka consumption. The situation worsened when the industrial production of vodka began in the country, causing its prices to drop sharply and making it available to even low-income citizens.

Meanwhile, a powerful anti-alcohol movement started in the 19th century. Government policies were made and public organizations established to prevent the spread of alcoholism in the country. The movement continued over the years; however, the problem remains. Although Russia does not occupy first place when it comes to alcohol consumption per capita, it is still close to the top.