Regeln im Forum » History of tobacco Part 2

There is evidence that Columbus, the first European to become familiar with tobacco leaves, did not appreciate them: he simply threw out this gift of the natives. However, several members of the expedition witnessed the ritual Smoking of large rolled tobacco leaves, which the locals called Tobago or tobacco, and became interested in the process.
After returning to their homeland, newly converted tobacco lovers were accused by the Inquisition of being connected with the devil. Despite the persecution of the Inquisition, the Spanish and Portuguese continued to bring tobacco leaves and seeds to Europe.
The spread of tobacco in the Old World was also promoted by respected statesmen: in 1561, the French Ambassador in Lisbon, Jean nicot, sent tobacco to his Queen, Catherine de ' Medici, and recommended it as an excellent remedy for migraines.