The first distillation of whiskey took place in Scotland or Ireland in the early 1000s AD. The term 'whisky' is originally from the Gaelic 'uisge beatha' or 'usquebaugh' meaning 'water of life'. Then in the 1600s, the Irish and Scots brought their knowledge to the New World.
No matter when it started, or who brought it to the Americas, whiskey has become a popular and premium spirit. So, Enjoy!