Pedagogy and Botany of the Columbian Biological Exchange: The 1491 Meal

Abstract

The transfer of domesticated food plants between the Old World and New World is one of the great stories of human–plant relations and has had a considerable impact on historical and economic interactions. Students rarely consider the role of these plants in defining regional cuisines and diets, both in a historical and contemporary context. This chapter explores an experiential curriculum designed to expose students to thinking about plants in these contexts and impress upon them the importance of what Crosby (1973) termed the Columbian Exchange. After an introductory unit on the topic covering plant domestication and centers of origin, students are placed into groups and tasked with conducting research on which plants were available in particular regions on the eve of New World contact. They are then asked to develop a dish to share with the class based solely on plants available to inhabitants of their particular region (e.g., SE USA, Mediterranean, South Asia). A “1491 Meal” ensues that provides a memorable and fun occasion to share their research findings with other students. Other activities could include a follow-up lecture that demonstrated the continued significance of plant migration in determining food trends and market economies.