FUN WITH MAPS ISSUE 2026-116

By Steve Kovacs (Introduction by Chuck Gibson)

LOVELAND, OH (July 7, 2026) – This edition of FWM teaches us about the history, benefits and evolution of the cacao bean as more than just a favorite sweet treat.  

Medicine or Delight

The traditional date for the introduction of chocolate to Europe is July 7, 1550.

It all dates back to about 5000 years ago when the cacao plant was domesticated in Ecuador.  The cacao-based drinks were considered elite among the Mayans and Aztecs.

The Spanish brought back beans from South America and they were considered medicinal by the Spanish.

Eventually a solid form was developed through technological innovations.  The 19th century saw the rise of the Swiss and the British chocolate makers.

By the late 19th and early 20th century mass-produced white and milk chocolate emerged and with the increased demand, cacao was also grown in Africa and Asia.

This Teesdale map of Ecuador, Columbia and Venezuela is from 1831.

Steve Kovacs and his wife Theresa reside in Loveland, Ohio where they raised their two children. He is a passionate collector of antique maps. Visit his antique map boutique world-on-paper online. Watch for his daily feature Fun with Maps here on Loveland Beacon.