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Potatoes

Definition

Potatoes are a starchy plant tuber native to South America that became one of Europe's most important staple crops after being introduced through the Columbian Exchange.

Analogy

Imagine potatoes as a popular new student who transfers into your school from another country. At first they're unknown but soon everyone realizes how versatile they are (they can be mashed, fried or baked!) and they become incredibly popular!

Related terms

Staple Crop: A food that is eaten routinely and makes up a dominant part of people's diet in a specific region or country. In this case, potatoes became a staple crop in many parts of Europe post-Columbian Exchange.

Famine: Extreme scarcity of food. The dependence on potatoes as a staple crop in Ireland led to the Great Famine when potato crops failed due to disease.

Nightshade Family: The botanical family to which potatoes belong, along with tomatoes, eggplants and peppers. All these plants were introduced to Europe through the Columbian Exchange.