The humble peanut is indigenous to South America, growing in the tropical regions. Although enjoyed by native peoples as a delicious food, the strange seed was also used in healing ceremonies, a practice that later became common in parts of Europe. Even the shells were ground and used in medicinal preparations. Thought to have magical medicinal qualities, it was used by the Spanish to cure the sick. A staple of Civil war soldiers, the nut soon gained popularity among wealthy gourmets. Without regard for the nut's rich cultural history and significance, it later was considered a simple food only for the poor. The little nut eventually lost its enchantment, becoming just an ordinary snack on airlines and at ball games.
When the Spanish came to America in 1492, they later made their way down to the tropical areas of South America. A foliage-rich jungle area, Spaniards were enticed by all the wonders of the rain forest. Strange birds and odd creatures weren't the only things that caught their eye. Seeing natives consuming peanuts gave the foreigners courage to try the funny looking nuts. Before then, they were afraid of eating any unknown foods they came upon. Among other things, the peanuts were soon hailed by the Spaniards as an exotic treat to bring back to Europe. So began the peanuts' world travels.
Bags upon bags of the nuts were carted to Europe. The Spanish touted this tasty nut as a rare and exotic food, and it soon became a European delicacy. Only the rich and powerful could afford this new luxury. When people learned to grow the plant in Europe, this nut no longer commanded a high price; They flourished for both rich and poor! Because the poor habitually salted almost everything, the peanut would soon fall victim to the preserving technique. This is when salted nuts came into vogue.
In America, during the 1700's and 1800's, alongside African slaves, the nuts were traded as an exotic food from far-away lands. During the Civil War, soldiers were constantly hungry, and favored snacks that could be quickly consumed while on the move. With such an appetite for the papery-clad nuts, soldiers were requesting peanuts at an amazing rate. By this time, they were considered common and easily obtained.
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