HIS106Y1 Lecture Notes - Lecture 11: Griddle, Maple Syrup, Cazuela
Document Summary
Humans are a primary focus, but we still need to be conscious of other biological and environmental factors. Looking at food in the period provides insights into the way indigenous resisted the europeans trying to change their ways. Central argument: indigenous resisted european efforts to change their eating habits, and also influence european tastes. The food exchange was not as one sided as animals and microbial exchange. Cultural influence does not only move in one direction. After columbian exchange, it became possible to feed more people around the world, increased the population. The number of humans on the plant would be smaller if not for the skills of the indigenous. Wheat was europeans staple, brought it with them along with other cereals. Wheat, rye and olive oil = culinary trinity from the mediterranean. Food is essential to cultural and religious identities. Both indigenous and europeans had foods for sacred purposes, special occasions, and had food they thought were taboo.
