Rum has a disputed history of origin with some claims as early as the 12th or 13th century, some claims a Brazilian origin in 16th century, but the traditional history of Rum that is widely believed and recorded as such is such is from the Caribbean in the 17th century by slaves working the plantations. They found the molasses, the by-product of sugar refining could be fermented with alcohol and then distilled. the earliest document on rum was found to be from 1651 from Barbados, mentioning the isle of Nevis in particular. 

The word rum origin is also murky, most accepted history and origin of term rum come from the word rumbullion, a beverage made using boiled sugar cane stalks. Other thoughts on the origin of the word have been theorized, for example from a tall drinking glass used by Dutch sailors of Romer, Another is from the Latin of iterum meaning again. 

Rums are produced in various grades, such as light, golden, dark.  Light rums are often used in cocktails, whereas Dark or Golden rums are often drank neat or on ice. Modern day see some golden and dark rums used for cooking or mixed drinks with soda for example. The classification/description of Premium rum are produced and designed to be enjoyed neat or the rocks(ice).

Rum is a big part of culture in most islands in the West Indies as well as Naval towns. It has a often a drink associated with the Royal Navy where it was mixed with beer to create grog. Rum is also heavily associated with pirates and piracy they mixed rum with beer or water to create bumbo. The spirit was also used as currency and payment in triangle trade of organised crime and slavery as well as in army insurgencies such as the Australian rum rebellion and American revolution. 

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