A NOTE ON THE INTRODUCTION OF METAL GRATERS AND THE PRODUCTION AND CONSUMPTION OF MANIOC AND MAIZE IN THE COASTAL ZONE OF THE GUIANAS DURING THE 17TH CENTURY

Abstract

Recent archaeological research on Cayenne Island (French Guiana) showed that maize was a very important crop during the Late Ceramic Age (AD 900-1500), at least among the coastal population of this part of the Guianas. In contrast, the Historic Age (AD 1500-1900) and Modern Times of this particular region is dominated by reports on the consumption of manioc, notably cassava, manioc beer and later on of farinha. This dichotomy makes sense when discussing various events during the 17th century by means of careful reading of the historical documents, the comparison of material culture and the interpretation of local Amerindian oral tradition. In this manner, it is proposed that the introduction of metal graters by Europeans has favored the consumption of manioc over maize. Keywords : Guianas, grater boards, metal tools, manioc, maize