The Colorful Tale of Mexico's A-maize-ing Grain

This might sound corny, but the relationship between maize and
humanity is essential. We rely on corn—globally, more maize is
grown than wheat or rice—and, in turn, corn is utterly dependent on
us, to the extent that it's lost the ability to reproduce without
our help. But corn's wild ancestor is such an unappetizing weed
that, for decades, archaeologists couldn't believe today's juicy
cobs were all descended from it. From this unpromising beginning,
we've got a story that involves empires, vampires, and generations
of women chained to the (literal) grindstone. Pass the popcorn and
settle in as we explore the past, present, and future of corn—and
the many delicious ways Mesoamericans have invented to get their
daily dose of vitamin T(ortilla). Plus: do blue and yellow corn
chips actually taste different? And what does it mean for your
relationship status if you can't get a tortilla to puff? Learn more
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