How did people obtain food in the 1790-1850s and what types of they consume?

During the 1790-1850s, people in the United States obtained food primarily through farming and hunting. This was a period before widespread industrialization and commercial food processing, so most food was produced and consumed locally.

1. Farming:

- Subsistence farming: Many people lived in rural areas and practiced subsistence farming, growing crops and raising animals primarily to meet their own needs rather than for sale. Common crops included corn, wheat, potatoes, and vegetables, while livestock included cattle, pigs, and chickens.

- Commercial farming: As transportation improved, some farmers began to produce agricultural products for sale in local markets or for export. Wheat, cotton, and tobacco were important cash crops during this period.

2. Hunting and Fishing:

- Hunting was a significant source of meat, particularly in frontier areas. Deer, rabbits, and wildfowl were commonly hunted.

- Fishing was another essential way to obtain food, especially in coastal areas and along rivers. Fish were caught in lakes, rivers, and the ocean, and many people preserved them by salting, smoking, or drying them.

3. Preservation Methods:

- Preservation methods were essential to store and preserve food during this time. Common preservation techniques included:

- Salting: Meats, fish, and vegetables were preserved by packing them in salt.

- Smoking: Meats and fish were hung over a smoky fire to preserve them.

- Drying: Fruits, vegetables, and meats were dried in the sun or over a fire to remove their moisture content.

- Pickling: Vegetables were preserved in a mixture of vinegar, salt, and spices.

4. Food Consumption:

- The diet of people in the 1790-1850s largely depended on their geographic location and economic status. However, some common foods during this period included:

- Bread: Bread made from wheat or cornmeal was a staple food in many households.

- Cornmeal: Cornmeal was widely used to make porridge, cakes, and bread.

- Meat: Meat, especially pork and beef, was a significant part of the diet.

- Vegetables: Vegetables such as potatoes, squash, turnips, and beans were commonly consumed.

- Fruits: Fruits like apples, peaches, and berries were eaten fresh or preserved.

Overall, the food obtained and consumed during the 1790-1850s was predominantly locally sourced and produced, emphasizing self-sufficiency and reliance on traditional methods of food preservation and preparation.