What kind of food was avaiable in the 1620?

The food available in 1620 depended heavily on location and social class. Here's a breakdown:

Europe (specifically England, where the Pilgrims originated):

* For the wealthy: A diverse diet of meats (beef, pork, lamb, game), poultry, fish, dairy products, fruits (apples, pears, plums), vegetables (carrots, peas, onions), and bread.

* For the poor: Mostly bread, porridge, and whatever vegetables or meat they could afford.

* Common foods: Barley, oats, rye, beans, lentils, cabbage, turnips, onions, leeks, apples, pears, plums, cheese, butter, and ale.

The Mayflower voyage and early Plymouth Colony:

* Onboard the Mayflower: Salted meats, dried fish, cheese, biscuits, and some limited fresh vegetables that wouldn't last long.

* In Plymouth: The Pilgrims' first harvest was poor, so they relied heavily on wild game, shellfish, and trade with the Wampanoag tribe.

* What they grew: Limited varieties of corn, beans, squash, pumpkins, and some herbs.

* What they hunted/gathered: Deer, turkey, rabbits, squirrels, wildfowl, fish, clams, oysters, and wild berries.

Important considerations:

* Food preservation: Salting, smoking, drying, and pickling were vital to preserve food throughout the year.

* Seasonal variations: Food availability varied significantly depending on the season.

* Trade with Native Americans: The Pilgrims depended heavily on trading with Native Americans for food and survival.

* The "Starving Time": The winter of 1620-1621 was particularly harsh, and many colonists died of starvation or disease. This is known as the "Starving Time."

In summary, the food available in 1620 was significantly less diverse and abundant than today. The Pilgrims faced many challenges in acquiring food and struggled to survive the harsh conditions of early colonial life.