Coffee Houses and Public Debate Flashcards

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What was a coffee house in Restoration England?

A small public house where people bought coffee and met to talk and share news.

Why did coffee houses become popular after 1660?

They sold a cheap, new drink and gave people a place to meet, read news and discuss ideas.

Who usually went to coffee houses in Restoration England?

Mainly men, such as merchants, traders, writers, lawyers and politicians.

Why were coffee houses nicknamed 'penny universities'?

Because for the price of a penny cup of coffee, you could hear debates and learn from others.

What kinds of topics were discussed in coffee houses?

People talked about politics, religion, trade, science, war and the latest news from London and abroad.

How did coffee houses help the spread of news and newspapers?

They kept newsletters and newspapers for customers to read or hear read aloud, so news spread quickly.

How did coffee houses encourage public debate?

They mixed people from different jobs and classes, who could openly argue about events and share opinions.

Why did the government and Charles II worry about coffee houses?

They feared that angry talk in coffee houses could lead to plots, rebellion and attacks on the king.

What did Charles II try to do to coffee houses in 1675?

He issued a royal order to close them, but it was quickly dropped after protests.

How were coffee houses linked to business and trade?

Merchants met there to share prices, swap shipping news and make deals, helping trade grow.

How did coffee houses fit into Restoration culture and new ideas?

They were centres where new political, scientific and literary ideas could spread beyond the royal court.

Who was often excluded from coffee houses, and what does this show?

Most women and poorer people were kept out, showing that public debate was still limited.