Cuban Cigar History - Learning About a Cigar Tobacco Legacy
For many years, smoking product experts have agreed that the best tobacco has been and is still grown in Cuba. This small country has been home to tobacco plantations since the early 18th century, when farmers first began planting the valuable crop on the east end of the island.
Since that time, the tobacco farms have spread progressively, until they now can be found in all regions of the country. The best tobacco is said to be grow in the higher and most recognized region, which is located in the Pinar del Río province. If you want to become a true lover of cigars, you should learn the basics of Cuban cigar history.
One of the most important things you can know about Cuban cigar history is not a native plant of Cuba. As far as scientists and anthropologists can tell, the tobacco plant originated in South America.
Although they are not exactly sure when it first arrived in Antilles many believe it to be between 3000 or 2000 years B.C. This makes tobacco one of the oldest crops actively cultivated by human beings. People have been smoking tobacco for its taste and relaxing effect for centuries.
Something else you should know about Cuban cigar history is that the natives of the island originally named it "Cohiba" tobacco. Early Cubans considered tobacco to have much more value than just a recreational substance.
They believed that tobacco had special spiritual and medicinal qualities and made it a regular part of their religious and political ceremonies, much like the Native Americans did. As it grew in popularity around the world, and European nations all wanted to insure that they would get the biggest share.
In 1717, King Felipe V arranged the "Tobacco Monopoly", and destroyed the business of many independence tobacco farmers. This trade restriction lasted until June 23rd, 1817, when free trade was again restored.
Eventually, the world came to respect Cuban tobacco for its superiority to the crops that were grown in North America and elsewhere. As a result, Cuban cigar history has become the stuff of legend, and the cigars themselves have become coveted additions to people's personal collections.
While some restriction on the trade of tobacco products still exists between the United States and Cuba, most people in other countries have no problem finding retailers that are selling the genuine article. England, Canada, and Spain are known for high quality cigar stores.
Joe Silva is a passionate Cuban cigar aficionado and is also an expert in cigar-making, etiquette and humidors. He has been collecting and enjoying cigars for nearly 20 years and has since been advising many cigar enthusiasts on everything from the history of Cuban cigars to choosing the right humidor for effective cigar storing. Joe also receives over a hundred enquiries everyday on how to purchase some of the finest cigars available online.
Article Source: ArticlesBase.com
