Why do spicy foods usually originate from hot countries?

by _Ishmael

I appreciate that many hot spices and such grow in warmer climates, but what I don't understand is why people who live in hot climates don't prefer cooler, milder flavors over hot ones. If I were a farmer working in the sun all day in say Mexico or India, I'd rather have something smooth and cool for dinner than something spicy. Just curious as to why hot foods seem to be promoted more in hotter countries than cool ones?

lcnielsen

Here's a recent answer by /u/Mqn724 that answers with regard to hot beverages, but extends the answer to spicy foods too.