Stuff You Should Know SYSK Selects: Sugar: It Powers the Earth
Dec 26, 2020
Explore the fascinating journey of sugar, from its origins in New Guinea to its cultural significance through centuries of trade. Discover the surprising nutritional impacts and how sugar has fueled global demand—sparking wars and even slavery. Dive into the sweet science of sugar production, including the risks and byproducts involved. A humorous look at sugar types reveals their health implications, while addressing the contemporary obesity epidemic. This sweet tale weaves nostalgia with hard facts about our sugary obsession!
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Sugar and Slavery
- Columbus's introduction of sugarcane to the Caribbean fueled the slave trade due to the region's ideal growing conditions.
- Sugar became known as "white gold" due to its high value and demand.
First Sugar Exchange
- In 1319, Venice and England conducted the first international sugar exchange, highlighting sugar's historical value.
- Fifty tons of sugar were sold for an equivalent of $11 million today, demonstrating its former luxury status.
Sugar and Tea
- The Reformation inadvertently boosted sugar consumption by reducing honey production in closed monasteries.
- The increased sugar availability coincided with this, making it affordable and leading to higher tea consumption.