Chocolate's Long and Complex History

Chocolate has a long and complex history that stretches back thousands of years. The first known use of chocolate dates back to the ancient Mayans and Aztecs, who used cocoa beans to make a bitter drink that was reserved for the elite members of their societies. The word "chocolate" comes from the Aztec word "xocolatl", which means "bitter water".

Introduction to Europe

It wasn't until the 16th century that chocolate was introduced to Europe by Spanish conquistadors. At first, chocolate was only consumed as a drink, and it wasn't until the 18th century that chocolate bars were invented.

Exploitation in Production

The production of chocolate has been intertwined with slavery and exploitation throughout much of its history. The demand for cocoa beans fueled the transatlantic slave trade, with millions of Africans being forcibly brought to the Americas to work on cocoa plantations.

Current State of the Industry

Today, the chocolate industry is worth billions of dollars and is dominated by a few large corporations. However, there is a growing movement towards artisanal and ethically-sourced chocolate, as consumers become more aware of the social and environmental implications of their purchases.

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