Plant Domestication in the New World and Introduction into the Old World

In the context of plant domestication and the exchange of agricultural crops between different regions, the New World refers to the Americas, while the Old World refers to Africa, Europe, and Asia. Several important crops were domesticated in the New World and later introduced into the Old World, leading to significant changes in agriculture and economies worldwide. Among these crops, the group that includes tobacco, cocoas, and rubber was domesticated in the New World and introduced into the Old World.

1. Tobacco:
- Tobacco is a plant native to the Americas and was first cultivated by indigenous peoples in the region.
- It played a crucial role in indigenous cultures, with various ceremonial and medicinal uses.
- European explorers, such as Christopher Columbus, encountered tobacco during their voyages to the Americas and brought it back to Europe.
- The introduction of tobacco had a profound impact on European society, leading to the establishment of tobacco plantations and the development of the tobacco industry.

2. Cocoas:
- Cocoa beans are the seeds of the cacao tree, which is native to the tropical regions of the Americas.
- The cultivation of cacao beans dates back to ancient civilizations in Mesoamerica, such as the Mayans and Aztecs.
- The beans were highly valued and used in the production of chocolate beverages.
- European colonizers, including the Spanish conquistadors, encountered cocoa beans during their expeditions and brought them back to Europe.
- The introduction of cocoa beans led to the development of the chocolate industry in Europe, with chocolate becoming a popular and sought-after commodity.

3. Rubber:
- Rubber is a natural polymer derived from the latex of several plant species, including Hevea brasiliensis, which is native to the Amazon rainforest in South America.
- Indigenous peoples in the Amazon region had been using rubber for various purposes, such as making waterproof clothing and footwear.
- The discovery of rubber by European explorers, such as Charles Marie de La Condamine, sparked interest in its potential uses.
- The introduction of rubber into the Old World led to the establishment of rubber plantations in Southeast Asia, particularly in countries like Malaysia and Indonesia, which became major producers of rubber.

Conclusion:
In summary, the group of plants that were domesticated in the New World and introduced into the Old World includes tobacco, cocoas, and rubber. These crops played significant roles in shaping agricultural practices, economies, and cultural practices in both the New World and the Old World.