From what I understand, the "safe drinking water was a pain in the ass" thing is largely a myth. Some good information available in this r/AskHistorians Reddit thread: https://www.reddit.com/r/AskHistorians/comments/1svj1q/how_d...
I believe it varies from region to region. In my country natural springs are all around so fresh water is not a problem. But I remember reading medieval era memoirs how people get surprised traveling when others don't have as much access to springs.
Re:America has a drinking problem
by frankzinger on Thursday June 03, 2021 @11:45AM
(#27383083)
The article says that the bad water theory is unlikely because it's easier and cheaper to boil water than to make alcoholic beverages.
Safe drinking water was a pain in the ass. So mild alcoholic drinks was the norm. That that'd give you a little buzz at best.
Very few people could have afforded to be truly shitfaced 24/7.