Chocolate and Romance: The History of Chocolate as a Love Symbol
Chocolate is a symbol of love. It’s not just that chocolate is delicious—it’s also the stuff legends are made of. Chocolate has been used as a symbol of romance since before it was even invented! Here’s how:
The Aztec times
The Aztecs were the first people to use chocolate as a symbol of love. They believed that the gods had given them this plant, and it was their duty to thank them with gifts. Chocolate was used as an offering, but also as a sweet treat for weddings and other special occasions. In fact, if you want to know whether a person is romantically interested in you or not, the best way is to give him/her some chocolate!
The Aztecs also created rituals surrounding their worship of the gods. To them, chocolate represented blood sacrifice in these ceremonies—and because they were so serious about treating their religious traditions with respect, they made sure that any time someone partook in one of these rituals they would have good intentions towards everyone involved (which means no stealing kisses).
The Spanish in the Caribbean
As the conquistadors explored the new world, they were introduced to what we now know as chocolate. They brought it back to Spain, where it was enjoyed by the upper classes. Chocolate became a symbol of love and romance, and this romantic association has persisted into modern times.
The Europeans
For the Europeans, chocolate was a luxury item, and it was not until the late 17th century that English chocolate-making on a commercial scale began. Chocolate became popular as an item to be given as gifts to celebrate special occasions. Chocolate houses were opened in London where people could meet and drink coffee or tea while eating sweets such as fruit tarts or cake; they also sold flowers and even perfumes.
England and chocolate-making on a commercial scale
As you might expect, chocolate-making on a commercial scale in England began with the Spanish. In 1654, an Englishman named James Barker opened a bakery in Reading, Berkshire that sold “sweetmeats” containing chocolate. The next year, another British entrepreneur named Thomas Luff established what is believed to be the first chocolate mill in London.
After this period of experimentation and innovation, chocolate became more readily available and popular in England during the late 17th century.
Conclusion
We hope you enjoyed our historical journey through the world of chocolate. We know, it was a long one, but we think that anyone who loves chocolate should have a healthy respect for its origins and history!
