Hot Potato!

[crofter]

Who reputedly introduced the potato to England in the 16th Century?

Searching the web suggests that there is evidence in support of both (a) Sir Walter Raleigh and (b) Sir Francis Drake.

Does anyone on AB have the definitive answer?

[galasalmon]

I always thought it was Walter Raleigh ,from school days which wasn't yesterday.

[Zen]

Try here.

http://www.selfsufficientish.com/potatoes.htm

[Strix]

crofter from the Oxford Concise Dictionary of National Biography for Sir Walter Raleigh:
"never visited Virginia himself, though the traditional story that potatoes and tobacco were introduced into England in consequence of these attempts at colonisation is probably correct."
There is no mention in Drake's biog of either potatoes or tobacco.
Not sure if this helps exactly!!

[crofter]

I am grateful for these three responses, but they serve to illustrate the dilemma I face... Not easy to guess how informed is the Quiz Setter in question!

[wallacia]

i agree crofter,if it was me i would put in sir walter raleigh.