In casual conversation, I brought up that one of the reasons for the Fertile Crescent’s cultural successes was maize. (Upon more reflection, the truth is probably closer to agriculture in general.) However, my initial comment was confidently responded to as being ill-informed and having many misconceptions.

The responses I received are as follows:

• The origin of maize is unknown.
• The success of early cultures was largely attributed to seafood.
• The domestication of corn in C. America is highly debated/Does not have enough caloric availability to be viable at 1 cob per stock.
• It is debatable whether the Mayans were capable of selective breeding.
• (Rhetorical question) “How does a cereal from across the ocean make it to Mexico?”

While some statements seemed like they could make sense, most of then baffled me. I quickly researched a few of them that made the least sense to me and couldn’t find much.

I’m looking for some evidence supported answers to some of these misunderstandings so I can try to understand what is correct and what us wrong. Any help or redirection to academic reads are highly appreciated!