Post Reports ‘Throughline’: There Will Be Bananas
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Dec 28, 2023 Explore the history and significance of bananas in American culture, from colonialism to labor movements. Learn about the captivating story of Minor Keith and the birth of the Banana Empire. Discover the taboo and marketing strategies of bananas in the US. Dive into the rise of the banana business model and the brutal massacre of trapped workers. Uncover the actions and influence of the United Fruit Company and the ongoing problems in the banana industry.
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Columbus in Costa Rica
- In 1502, Christopher Columbus landed on Uvita Island, off Costa Rica's coast.
- His son explored the jungle, encountering advanced civilizations and calling the land "Costa Rica."
Minor Keith's Ambition
- Minor Cooper Keith, a Brooklyn-born cattle rancher, sought fortune through railroads.
- During this era, American entrepreneurs pursued opportunities, driven by westward expansion and resource exploitation.
Railroad Construction Challenges
- Keith's railroad project faced immense challenges: dense rainforest, deadly wildlife, and tropical diseases.
- Initial workers, including Costa Ricans, abandoned the project due to hazardous conditions and high mortality.