The Columbian Exchange facilitated the transfer of crops between the Old World (Europe, Asia, and Africa) and the New World (the Americas). Manioc, also known as cassava, is a root vegetable native to South America that became an essential food source in West Africa after its introduction through the Columbian Exchange.
People in West Africa eat manioc for several reasons:
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Adaptability to Soil and Climate: Manioc is drought-resistant and thrives in poor soil conditions, making it suitable for the agricultural environment in many regions of West Africa.
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Caloric Efficiency: It is a high-calorie food that provides substantial energy, which is critical in regions where other staple crops might fail due to environmental stresses.
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Diverse Uses: Manioc can be prepared in various ways, including boiling, frying, or processing into flour, making it a versatile ingredient in local diets.
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Economic Value: Cultivating manioc can be an important economic activity for smallholder farmers, contributing to food security and local economies.
Based on these factors, the best statement explaining why people in West Africa eat manioc would be that it is a resilient crop that provides a reliable source of calories and can thrive in the region's agricultural conditions.
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