The History of Fresh Produce

“I did not form a very favorable first impression, I must admit. I came here from Jacksonville by way of the river and the Tocoi railway and got here just at night. The accommodation was very bad and most of the visitors here were consumptives. I didn’t like it, and took the first train back to Jacksonville.” While Henry Flagler’s initial impression of St. Augustine, Florida, was far from glowing,...

At its height, the Mongol Empire was the largest contiguous land empire in history, initially forged under the leadership of Genghis Khan. Spanning from 1206 to 1368, it extended across much of Eurasia, fueled by advanced technology and a formidable force of nomadic warriors. The Mongol Empire's influence was profound, leaving a lasting legacy that even reached the world of fresh produce. In this...

In this live-stream, John and Patrick follow up the week's earlier episode with a summary of their visit to America's oldest Botanical Garden. Bartram's Garden is a 50-acre public garden and National Historic Landmark in Southwest Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, situated on the banks of the Tidal Schuylkill River. Founded in 1728 by botanist John Bartram (1699–1777), it is the oldest botanical garden...

In this episode, John and Patrick take a trip to the historic Bartram’s Garden, where they are joined by special guest Mandy Katz, Lead Gardener at Bartram’s Garden. Together, they explore the legacy of renowned botanist John Bartram, whose pioneering work in horticulture laid the foundation for America’s botanical heritage. Mandy shares insights into the fascinating history of the garden, its con...

Join John and Patrick as they dive into the rich, agricultural tapestry of Middle-earth in this episode focused on the symbolic significance of fresh produce and farming in Tolkien’s world. Explore how the idyllic Shire, with its abundance of gardens and homegrown foods, contrasts with the industrial blight of Isengard and the barren wastelands of Mordor. Through these contrasts, Tolkien reveals d...

In the final episode of this Olympics marathon, John and Patrick share the story of the Delano grape strike. During the early 20th century, Filipino and Mexican immigrants arrived in America seeking better opportunities for themselves and their families. Many found themselves laboring on farms along the Western seaboard, often with little care given to their health and working...

In today's episode, John and Patrick discuss the disruptive impact of British colonization on Kenya and its agricultural landscape. Kenyan farmers and communities faced immense hardships, from having their lands appropriated to being restricted on what crops they could grow.  As tensions boil over following the Second World War, leading to open rebellion, the big questions emerge: Will K...

Join John and Patrick as they unravel the captivating journey of coffee in Brazil, from its clandestine introduction in the 18th century to its explosive rise as a global powerhouse. Discover how coffee's rise redefined Brazil’s agricultural landscape, influenced global trade, and fueled social change, all while navigating the tumultuous impacts of slavery and economic upheavals. In...

In today's episode, John and Patrick explore the extraordinary life and tragic fate of Nikolai Vavilov, a visionary scientist who revolutionized agricultural science in the early 20th century. Against the backdrop of revolution and war-torn Russia, Vavilov's commitment to collecting and preserving seeds from around the world, culminating in the creation of the world's first seed bank, became...

Join John and Patrick as they unravel the fascinating journey of the McIntosh apple, from its humble beginnings in Canada’s rugged wilderness to becoming a beloved global symbol. Discover how John McIntosh’s accidental discovery transformed the apple industry, and explore the surprising connection between this iconic fruit and the birth of a tech giant. In Sponsorship with Cornell University: Dyso...

In today's episode, John and Patrick explore Japan's rich history with fruits, uncovering how what was once a rare indulgence has evolved into a symbol of luxury and cultural significance. From historical roots to contemporary practices, discover why fruits continue to captivate the Japanese imagination and why even today, a perfect melon or strawberry can command thousands of dollars. I...

In today's episode, John and Patrick explore the remarkable journey of the kiwifruit, tracing its origins from the misty mountains of central China, where it grew wild for centuries, to its introduction in New Zealand by pioneering botanists and missionaries. Discover how this once-unknown fruit, initially dubbed the Chinese gooseberry, transformed into a global icon synonymous with New Zeala...

In the early 20th century, a wave of Jewish migrants set sail for Argentina, driven by dreams of a brighter future. Their path began in agricultural colonies, spurred by Baron de Hirsch's late 19th-century vision to establish South American homes for Eastern European Jews. Join John and Patrick as they delve into the triumphs and tribulations of this ambitious venture. From Moisés Ville, the...

Join John and Patrick as they delve into the early interactions between Dutch settlers and Khoikhoi pastoralists at the Cape of Good Hope. What begins as a Dutch East India Company refreshment outpost to supply ships traveling to and from the East Indies evolves into a catalyst for European colonization driven by trade and agricultural ambitions. As Dutch settlers strive to expand their farms, ten...

In today's episode, join John and Patrick as they uncover the captivating history of currants, tracing their evolution from Corinth to becoming a dietary staple in England. By the 17th century, these miniature grapes, mainly imported from Greek territories, served as an essential sweetener before sugar became widely accessible. The Levant Company seized upon this trade, yielding substantial profit...

In today's episode, John and Patrick delve into Australia's tumultuous World War I era. They uncover how veterans, armed with patriotism but little farming know-how, embarked on the Soldier Settlement Scheme, only to face an unexpected adversary: the emus. Discover how these flightless birds transformed from protected species to notorious crop destroyers, adding a quirky twist to the hardships of...

The Cultural Revolution of 1966 in China was characterized by violent purges and the rise of the Red Guards, plunging the nation into chaos. Amid this turmoil, the Chinese people became captivated by mangoes, a gift from Chairman Mao that sparked an unexpected obsession. Join John and Patrick as they explore the rise and fall of the bizarre "Mango Craze" in 1960s China. In Sponsorship with Cornell...

The moment has arrived! John and Patrick are launching their epic Olympic-themed extravaganza in honor of the 2024 Summer Olympics. Over the next two-and-a-half weeks they will be unveiling new episodes, each dedicated to a different country competing in this historic sporting event. With 17 days, 13 countries, and 13 episodes ahead, get ready for an exhilarating journey! First up i...

The stage is set. Britain's East India Company dispatches four laden ships bound for American shores, their cargo: tea. In the heart of Boston, colonists face a pivotal decision. Will they accept the tea, return it, or dare to defy the crown? The clock ticks down as tensions reach a boiling point! Join John and returning special guest, historian Dr. Benjamin Carp, as they unravel the suspense...

After a triumphant victory in the Seven Years' War, Britain faced an unexpected adversary: staggering debt. With the national debt skyrocketing from £74 million to £133 million, the pressure was on to find new revenue sources. Britain's gaze turned across the Atlantic to its American colonies. What demands would they place on the colonies? Would the Americans comply, or would resistance brew?...

Britain and tea. It’s difficult to picture a time when these two weren’t linked, but that was very much the case until about 350 years ago. The change came when a Portuguese princess brought her tea addiction to England through her marriage to Charles II. Soon after, this ancient Chinese beverage captivated the entire British society, cutting across all classes, and spreading even f...

The Boston Tea Party marked a turning point in Colonial American-British relations, triggering a sequence of events that ultimately led to the American Revolutionary War. This act of defiance resonated deeply across the American colonies. At the heart of the conflict was the tea leaf, a commodity shipped to Britain and its colonies by the formidable British East India Company. As the world's large...

Summer is here, and it's time to plan your vacation! Whether you're hitting the beach, traveling abroad, or enjoying a staycation, there are fantastic produce-themed destinations to explore. In today's bonus livestream episode, John and Patrick showcase several produce-themed holiday spots to inspire your summer adventures. From a fruit museum in Italy to a presidential vegetable garden in Virgini...

In 1811, King George III, often referred to as the "mad king who lost America," was declared unfit to rule, leading his son to assume the role of Prince Regent and ushering in the Regency Era in England. This era was characterized by indulgence in excess, lavish parties, extravagant fashion, and opulent food. While Jane Austen's novels have immortalized this period over the past two centuries, it...

It was the political and cultural center of the Arab world during its height. The city was a melting pot of cultures, foods and ideas that attracted people from as far north as Scandinavia and as far south as Africa. Within 100 years of its establishment, there were lush gardens, elaborate villas, and great libraries. This was THE city to be in - the 'navel of the world'. The city of medieval...