Publisher's Synopsis
The Origin of Indian Corn and Its Relatives is a comprehensive book written by P.C. Mangelsdorf that explores the evolutionary history and genetic diversity of corn and other related crops. The book provides a detailed account of the origins of corn, tracing its roots back to the ancient civilizations of Mesoamerica and South America. It also covers the domestication and cultivation of corn by Native American tribes and the subsequent spread of the crop throughout the world.The book delves into the genetic makeup of corn and its close relatives, such as teosinte and Tripsacum, and how they have evolved over time. It discusses the various genetic traits that have been selected for in corn, such as kernel size, color, and yield, and how these traits have been manipulated through breeding and genetic modification.In addition to its scientific content, The Origin of Indian Corn and Its Relatives also provides a historical and cultural perspective on the significance of corn in human societies. It explores the various uses of corn in food, medicine, and religious ceremonies, as well as its role in shaping the cultural identity of Native American communities.Overall, The Origin of Indian Corn and Its Relatives is an essential read for anyone interested in the history and science of one of the world's most important crops. It provides a comprehensive and detailed account of the evolution and genetic diversity of corn and its relatives, as well as their cultural and historical significance.This is a new release of the original 1939 edition.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.