Chocolate, that delicious treat that melts oh-so-perfectly in the mouth, has a rich history dating back to more than 2,000 years ago. It has taken many forms and changed through the years, but this culinary delight has been a favorite since its discovery.
Chocolate, the Aztecs and Mayas
The origin of the word “chocolate” most likely comes from the Aztec word “xocoatl” which refers to the bitter drink the native peoples concocted from cacao beans. The beans from the cacao plant were so prized that they were even used as currency by the Aztecs and Mayas. It was believed to be an elixir for good health, to be an aphrodisiac and to have magical properties. Montezuma, the Aztec emperor, partook of the drink every day to increase his libido, and chocolate was present at all major events in a person’s life: birth, marriage and death.
Europeans are Introduced to Chocolate
Europeans first came in contact with chocolate in 1519 when it was given to the Spanish explorer Hernan Cortez and his crew. The frothy, bitter drink did not sit well on the European palate, but with the addition of sugar, the drink became a vastly popular luxury.
In the French royal court, chocolate gained the reputation of being an aphrodisiac. Casanova reportedly drank chocolate before each of his romantic liaisons. Others in Europe drank the concoction because they believed it possessed medicinal properties and was nutritional in nature.
The Transformation of Chocolate from Drink to Candy
In 1780, the first machine-produced chocolate was manufactured in Barcelona, Spain. Then, in 1828, a Dutch chemist discovered the method of producing cacao powder. Joseph Fry of Fry & Sons took the discovery one step further and produced the first chocolate bar in 1847. Early producers of chocolate in solid form were the Cadbury and Nestle companies. In fact, Cadbury was the first to offer Valentine’s Day chocolate treats in 1868. Finally, in 1875, Swiss chocolate, renowned for its smooth texture and mild taste, was made by Daniel Peter.
In the United States, chocolate has found its way into the meal rations during wartime and the modern-day Meals Ready to Eat, or MRE’s. Chocolate has even been to space, status less loved foods cannot boast. Chocolate has recently gained popularity with new claims as to its medicinal potential, though all one can actually claim when discussing chocolate is that it may help in the decreased risk of heart disease. However, the claim is excuse enough for many to enjoy the sumptuous treat on a daily basis.
Regardless of the healthful potential of chocolate, it remains today a confection of delight for people the world over. This 2,000+ year old food will certainly maintain its popularity for centuries to come.
Sources:
Benson, Amanda. “A Brief History of Chocolate,” Smithsonian Institution. March 2008.
“The History of Chocolate,” from WebMD.
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