Did you know Coca-Cola started as a desperate attempt to cure a morphine addiction? 🍷💊
In 1865, Dr. John Pemberton, a pharmacist turned soldier, was slashed with a saber during the Civil War. Doctors gave him morphine to ease the pain, but he became hopelessly addicted.
To save himself, he brewed “French Wine Coca,” a mix of wine, caffeine, and coca leaves. It was a hit… until Atlanta banned alcohol.
Pemberton had to “panic pivot.” He swapped the wine for sugar and essential oils, creating the soda we know today.
Ironically, while the brand is now worth billions, Pemberton sold the rights to Asa Candler for almost nothing and died penniless.
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