Ancient Latin American Crops and Domestication
Early Agriculture in Latin America
Mesoamerica
The Three Sisters and Maize
In Mesoamerica, experimentation with agriculture focused on corn, beans, and squash—the “Three Sisters.” However, agricultural development wasn’t uniform across the region. For example, maize, a cornerstone of Latin American culture, is believed to have been cultivated in Oaxaca as early as 7500 BC, in Tehuacan around 5000 BC, and in Tamaulipas by 3000 BC.
Other Important Crops
Various types of squash or pumpkin (Cucurbita pepo, mixed, moschata) emerged at different times, along with pepper, avocado, amaranth, mesquite, cactus, agave, and nuts.
The Andean Area
Potatoes and Quinoa
The Andean Area specialized in potato cultivation near 3500 BC. Quinoa appeared in Ayacucho, Peru, around 4500 BC. Other important crops included cañihua (also known as qañiwa or qañawa) and pumpkin.
Animal Domestication
The domestication of animals like the llama and the guinea pig also played a significant role in Andean agriculture.
The Amazon and Orinoco Basin
In the Amazon and Orinoco basin, cassava was a key crop.
The Olmec Civilization
A Mysterious Culture
The Olmec civilization remains enigmatic. Their original name is unknown; “Olmec” is an Aztec term meaning “rubber people.” Archaeological evidence regarding their ethnic origins and the location and extent of their settlements is limited. However, the Olmecs did develop a system of symbols to represent their gods and religious practices.
Important Animals
Animals held great significance in Olmec culture. The jaguar, represented in were-jaguar sculptures (a blend of human and jaguar), is believed to have been their supreme deity. Eagles, snakes, and caimans were also important.
Olmec Deities
Archaeologist Peter Joralemon identified eight Olmec deities: the Olmec Dragon, the Bird Monster, the Fish Monster, the Banded-eye God, the Maize God, the Water God, the were-Jaguar, and the Feathered Serpent.
Cultural Blending in New Spain
The Challenge of Identity
The blending of Spanish culture with the diverse cultures of Mexico, Guatemala, and Peru was complex. The conquered people faced an identity crisis, grappling with imposed religion, social structures, and language. According to Anthony King, identity is often tied to place, and architecture played a role in addressing this identity issue.
Art and Architecture in New Spain
Murals by prominent New Spain painters Juan Correa and Cristóbal de Villalpando offer insights into this period. One of Correa’s most celebrated works is the “Assumption of the Virgin” (1685–1686). His depiction of the Virgin of Guadalupe typically includes subsidiary scenes of the four apparitions.
Baroque Painting
Baroque painting, unlike Renaissance art, often lacks a central focal point. Instead, the canvas is filled with detail, overwhelming and captivating the viewer. This is evident in works like Diego Velázquez’s “Las Meninas,” which presents a complex court scene with multiple figures and subtle psychological interplay.