Tobacco has a long and complex history, with conflicting information about its origin and who first smoked it. Plant geneticists have determined that tobacco's center of origin is located in the Peruvian/Ecuadorian Andes, with estimates for its first cultivation ranging from 5000-3000 BC. However, the use of tobacco in Asia can be traced back even further, as early as the 12th century.
Christopher Columbus and the Discovery of Tobacco
It was Christopher Columbus who accidentally discovered the narcotic qualities of tobacco during his voyage to America in 149When Columbus and his men landed on the Islands of Tobago, they were surprised to find the native people either sniffing a powdered dry leaf or smoking rough rolls of dried-up leaves.
Curiosity led Columbus and his men to try these tobacco products themselves, and they were satisfied with the intoxicating effect. They decided to take some dried leaves and seeds back to Europe, introducing tobacco to the continent.
The Role of Red Indians
Another version of tobacco's introduction suggests that the Red Indians used tobacco for both medicinal and ceremonial purposes. They would inhale the smoke from burning leaves through their nostrils using a hollow forked cane, which gave the plant its name in Spanish, tobaco, and in English, tobacco.
In 1560, a Spanish physician brought tobacco to Europe after being sent to Mexico. Around the same time, Jean Nicot, the French Ambassador to Portugal, learned about tobacco in Lisbon and introduced it to the French Court. The plant's botanical name, Nicotiana, and the word nicotine were derived from Nicot's name. Smoking became popular in many countries during the 17th century.
Tobacco's Arrival in India
Tobacco is believed to have been introduced to India in the early 17th century. Despite social disapproval and neglect, tobacco thrived in the country. Today, it is an important commercial crop in India, earning around 6000 crores in foreign exchange and 20000 crores in excise revenue. It provides livelihood security to approximately 45 million people, including farmers, farm laborers, tendu leaf puckers, bidi rollers, and traders.
The origin of tobacco and who first smoked it may have conflicting accounts, but its impact on the world cannot be denied. From its accidental discovery by Christopher Columbus to its introduction to various parts of the world, tobacco has become a significant crop and a source of livelihood for millions of people. Its complex history continues to fascinate, and its influence on cultures and societies remains strong.
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