A daily Rum ration (called a “tot”) was instated by the Royal British Navy in 1655. It continued until July 31, 1970, known as “Black tot day”. General Washington ordered a ration for “all soldiers and sailor” on November 4, 1775. In 1914 Navy Secretary Josephus Daniels replaced the Rum ration with a coffee ration with a coffee ration, hence the term “cup if Joe”
”the benefit arising from the moderate use of a strong liquor have been experienced in all naves and are not to be disputed”
-General George Washington
