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# Chocolate Cultivation The Mayans, cultural descendants of the Olmec civilizations, also cultivated cocoa. They initially grew cocoa in low-lying areas with suitable temperatures and climates. According to historical records, Mayan cocoa cultivation began around 200 B.C. Later, when the Mayan po...

# Chocolate Cultivation The Mayans, cultural descendants of the Olmec civilizations, also cultivated cocoa. They initially grew cocoa in low-lying areas with suitable temperatures and climates. According to historical records, Mayan cocoa cultivation began around 200 B.C. Later, when the Mayan populations moved to the Yucatan region, they developed new methods for growing cocoa in personal gardens. This innovation was necessary because the Yucatan climate wasn't ideal for cocoa cultivation. # Mayan Chocolate for the Nobility Chocolate consumption in Mayan society was largely restricted to the nobility. A key factor was the limited cocoa cultivation in Mayan cities. Often, cocoa had to be imported from other cities, which increased its value. While the elite enjoyed chocolate as a luxury drink, commoners consumed it rarely, if ever. This made chocolate a significant indicator of social status in Mayan society.