Throughout Europe, the most important new food in the 19th century was the potato, which had three major advantages over other foods for the consumer: its lower rate of spoilage, its bulk (which easily satisfied hunger) and its cheapness.
Why were potatoes important in Europe?
They were initially popular in Spain because they provided cheap sustenance for the poor. It wasn't long before they were in demand throughout the continent as a food that was easy to grow and highly nutritious. Today, potatoes are a staple for people all over Europe.
How did potatoes impact Europe in the Columbian Exchange?
They were part of the Columbian Exchange as well as being disseminated by many other large trade routes. Potatoes became widespread and then turned into a necessity for the people in Europe to survive. Potatoes created a more nutritional diet as well as creating jobs and population booms everywhere the plant was grown.
Why was the potato an important crop?
The potato produces more food on less land faster than any other major food crop and, as a result, potato crops are an excellent alternative for farmers who need to feed growing populations with limited areas of crop land. One hectare of potatoes can yield a crop with a food value of more than four hectares of grain.
How did potatoes become staple Europe?
The uncertainly of food supply during the Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars, combined with the tendency of above-ground crops to be destroyed by soldiers, encouraged France's allies and enemies to embrace the tuber as well; by the end of the Napoleonic Wars in 1815, the potato had become a staple food in the diets of ...
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