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Pirate Introduced Avocado
- William Dampier, a pirate, explorer, and naturalist, introduced "avocado" into English.
- He documented the word and a recipe involving smashing it with sugar and lime juice, predating modern guacamole.
Robinson Crusoe Inspiration
- Dampier's poor seamanship led Alexander Selkirk to maroon himself, inspiring "Robinson Crusoe".
- Selkirk later rejoined Dampier, found treasure, retired rich, but still lived in a cave for 15 years.
Early Avocado Descriptions
- Before Dampier's "avocado," the fruit had various names like "aguacata" or "agricado."
- A 1660 poem describes the avocado's "white and spermy juice," reflecting older varieties.