Chocolate reached east of Mississippi 1,000 years ago; ancient pottery reveals cacao at feasts

Research conducted at the Etowah Indian Mounds has revealed cacao residue in 11th-century pottery, illustrating that the Mississippian culture actively consumed cacao as part of their lifestyle. This discovery suggests interconnected trade networks similar to those seen in Chaco Canyon, hinting at shared cultural exchanges. The distinct pottery styles from Etowah further emphasize this cultural interaction, prompting further investigation into these ancient societies.