MS Spanish Visits the Latin American Institute

Last week, a group of Spanish 2 students enjoyed a visit to the Latin American Institute in Vienna, an interdisciplinary organization dedicated to intensifying dialogue and exchange between Austria and Latin America. They attended a presentation exploring the vital role of corn within Latin American cultures and across the globe.

The students learned that corn originated in Mexico approximately 9,000 years ago and that it evolved into a fundamental staple for both human and animal diets. For many Latin American cultures, including the Maya and the Aztecs, corn was revered as a profound symbol of life.

The group enjoyed hearing legends from these civilizations, many of which share the belief that humankind was created from corn. The students also viewed an art exhibition dedicated to the grain, showcasing its many vibrant varieties, including yellow, purple, dark blue, and red husks.

Today, corn is one of the most widely cultivated crops in the world, alongside wheat and rice. Without corn, humanity would starve, which is why in Spanish they say, "Sin maíz, no hay país" (Without corn, there is no country). The next time you enjoy a nacho, tortilla, quesadilla, tamale, or a bowl of polenta, take a moment to appreciate the incredible history of the corn that made the meal possible!