In this colloquy we will explore the origins of agriculture, the centers of origin of the wild ancestors of crop plants, how they have been dispersed across the globe and become prominent in our human history. We will consider 1) the 16th century spice trade, 2) crop dispersal in the 17th century as exemplified by the Columbian Exchange of crops and culture from Europe to the New World and vice versa, and 3) scientific plant exploration in the 18th century inspired by Linneaus, Banks, Captain Cook and others. We shall see that European exploration and colonialism was basically driven by botanical interests. Three crops will be considered in some detail for their botanical impact on human history. Peppercorns from India the East Indies generated world exploration and conflict in the 16th Century. The apple originating in the Caucasus Mountains became the quintessential American fruit. The potato with its origin in the mountains of South America became the fuel of 19th century Europe.

A hands-on activity to be shared at our fourth session will be to choose a plant and, if possible, an associated individual, and prepare a ‘Zine’ to share at our last session. The creation of a ‘Zine’ for your chosen plant will highlight in a few pages the history of your crop, and it will introduce you to a new and creative communication skill and keep the effort to a manageable level. Your Gen Z friends and relatives will be mightily impressed! https://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Zine

Here are some suggested crops:

Banana, Cichona, Cinnamon, Citron, Coffee, Ginger,

Hemp, Indigo, Maize (corn), Mango, Nutmeg, Pineapple,

Saffron, Tulip, Squash, Vanilla, Sugar, Cane,

Tea, Tobacco, Tomato

Suggested Readings: