Stuff You Should Know SYSK Selects: Sugar: It Powers the Earth
Dec 26, 2020
Explore the fascinating journey of sugar, from its origins in New Guinea to its cultural significance through centuries of trade. Discover the surprising nutritional impacts and how sugar has fueled global demand—sparking wars and even slavery. Dive into the sweet science of sugar production, including the risks and byproducts involved. A humorous look at sugar types reveals their health implications, while addressing the contemporary obesity epidemic. This sweet tale weaves nostalgia with hard facts about our sugary obsession!
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Sugar Origins
- Sugar's popularity as a sweetener has deep roots, originating in New Guinea.
- Polynesians cultivated sugar as early as 5,000 to 8,000 years ago.
Sugar Spread
- Sugar's journey from Polynesia to India facilitated its global spread through established trade routes.
- The Crusades introduced sugar to Western Europe, further expanding its reach.
Sugar and Slavery
- Columbus's introduction of sugarcane to the Caribbean fueled the slave trade due to the region's ideal growing conditions.
- Sugar became known as "white gold" due to its high value and demand.