Maya trade after the arrival of the Spanish

Fejérváry-Mayer Codex
Page from the Fejérváry-Mayer Codex

After the Spanish arrived, European diseases and war disrupted the old way of life, but Maya markets soon revived.

European goods such as glass beads and iron tools entered Maya systems of exchange. Maya staples, such as tobacco, chilli peppers, chocolate, vanilla, rubber and tomatoes were adopted by Europeans, and in time became worldwide household items.


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