History of Mangoes

Origin and History of Mangoes

Ancient Origins

• Mangoes are native to South Asia, specifically the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia
• They have been cultivated for over 4,000 years
• Mangoes were first mentioned in Hindu and Buddhist texts around 400 BCE

Spread and Trade

• Mangoes were introduced to the Middle East and Africa by Indian traders and travelers
• They were brought to Brazil by Portuguese explorers in the 16th century
• Mangoes were introduced to Mexico and Central America by Spanish colonizers

Cultivation and Breeding

• Mangoes were cultivated in India for their fruit, timber, and shade
• Over time, different varieties were developed through selective breeding
• Today, there are over 1,000 known mango varieties worldwide

Global Distribution

• Mangoes are now grown in many tropical and subtropical regions around the world
• They are a major crop in countries such as India, China, Brazil, and Mexico
• The United States is also a significant producer, with mangoes grown in Florida and Hawaii

Origin and History of Mangoes

Ancient Origins

• Native to South Asia, specifically the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia, with a history of over 4,000 years of cultivation
• First mentioned in Hindu and Buddhist texts around 400 BCE

Spread and Trade

• Introduced to the Middle East and Africa by Indian traders and travelers
• Brought to Brazil by Portuguese explorers in the 16th century
• Introduced to Mexico and Central America by Spanish colonizers

Cultivation and Breeding

• Cultivated in India for fruit, timber, and shade, leading to the development of different varieties through selective breeding
• Over 1,000 known mango varieties worldwide today, a result of centuries of breeding and cultivation

Global Distribution

• Now grown in many tropical and subtropical regions around the world
• Major crop in countries like India, China, Brazil, and Mexico
• Significant production in the United States, primarily in Florida and Hawaii