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The True History of Chocolate

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Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
The True History of Chocolate by Sophie D. Coe and Michael D. Coe delves into the rich history of chocolate, tracing its origins from ancient Mesoamerican civilizations to its spread into European culture. The book explores the cultural and historical significance of chocolate, detailing its transformation and adaptation over centuries. It's a captivating narrative that sheds light on the intricate history behind one of the world's most beloved treats.
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Format: Paperback / softback
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might enjoy this book if you're fascinated by the historical journey of chocolate from its ancient roots in Mesoamerica to becoming a beloved global delicacy. This book offers a rich exploration of how chocolate has influenced culture, economy, and taste, making it a delightful read for history enthusiasts and chocoholics alike.

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Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

Chocolate - 'the food of the Gods' - has had a long and eventful history. Its story is expertly told here by the doyen of Maya studies, Michael Coe, and his late wife, Sophie.

The book begins 3,000 years ago in the Mexican jungles and goes on to draw on aspects of archaeology, botany, and socio-economics. Used as currency and traded by the Aztecs, chocolate arrived in Europe via the conquistadors, and was soon a favourite drink with aristocrats.

By the 19th century and industrialization, chocolate became a food for the masses - until its revival in our own time as a luxury item. Chocolate has also been giving up some of its secrets to modern neuroscientists, who have been investigating how flavour perception is mediated by the human brain.

Finally, the book closes with two contemporary accounts of how chocolate manufacturers have (or have not) been dealing with the ethical side of the industry.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

The True History of Chocolate by Sophie D. Coe and Michael D. Coe is praised as a thorough and engaging exploration of chocolate's history, tracing its journey from ancient civilisations to modern-day consumption. Described as both scholarly and entertaining, it delves into the cultural and scientific facets of chocolate, winning acclaim for its meticulous research and lively narrative. The book is seen as a delightful treat for both chocoholics and those interested in historical investigations, filled with fascinating stories and insights.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780500294741

Publisher: Thames & Hudson Ltd

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 07 February 2019

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Thames & Hudson Ltd

Edition: Third edition

Illustration: 85 Illustrations, black and white; 14 Illustrations, color

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Width: 129.0mm

Height: 198.0mm

Weight: 270g

Pages: 280

Collections

Education & Reference History & Archaeology History & Military Non-Fiction Sophie D. Coe

About the Author

Sophie D. Coe, an anthropologist and food historian, was the author of America’s First Cuisines. Professor Michael D. Coe is Professor Emeritus of Anthropology and Curator Emeritus in the Peabody Museum of Natural History at Yale University. His books include The Maya, Reading the Maya Glyphs and Mexico and The True History of Chocolate, all published by Thames & Hudson.

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