The following paragraphs are from an essay about the history of the potato in Europe. Arrange the paragraphs in the most logical order to create a cohesive passage.
- 1Originally cultivated by the Incas in the Andes mountains, the potato was first brought to Europe by Spanish explorers in the sixteenth century. European botanists treated this strange plant with great curiosity, classifying it alongside other exotic flora from the Americas.
- 2Despite this botanical interest, common people were highly suspicious of the new tuber. Because it was not mentioned in the Bible and grew underground, many peasants feared it was poisonous or caused diseases, growing it only as a decorative garden flower.
- 3Over time, however, famine and warfare forced European governments to promote the potato as a reliable food source. Once farmers realized its high yield and nutritional value, the crop rapidly became a staple food that supported massive population growth across the continent.
Answer
The correct order of the paragraphs is: the introduction of the potato's arrival, followed by the paragraph describing initial European suspicion, and concluding with the paragraph explaining its eventual adoption as a staple crop.
The most logical order begins with the introduction of the potato's origin and arrival in Europe, continues with the paragraph describing the public suspicion that existed despite botanical interest, and concludes with the paragraph detailing its eventual acceptance as a staple crop due to famine and war.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Paragraph-Level Transitions