Everything Everywhere Daily

Corn aka Maize

Jun 28, 2024
Discover the journey of corn, from its origins in southern Mexico to becoming a global agricultural staple post the Columbian Exchange. Learn about its cultural significance, impact on various industries, and its status as the most produced crop in the world.
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INSIGHT

Corn vs. Maize

  • The word "corn" originally meant any grain, not just maize.
  • The American usage of "corn" for maize is becoming globally dominant.
INSIGHT

Corn's Origins

  • Corn, or maize, was first domesticated in southern Mexico 9,000 years ago from teosinte.
  • All modern corn varieties descend from this single domestication event.
ANECDOTE

Three Sisters

  • Native Americans developed sophisticated farming techniques, like the "three sisters" method.
  • This involved planting corn, beans, and squash together for mutual benefit.
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