Entry of Potato to Iran as a Major Transition in Traditional Agriculture of Qajar Era

The aim of this research is to study the role of potato in Qajar era after its importation from Europe to Iran. Qajar king and intellectuals were the first who understand the importance of potato as a supplementary and perfect food. They knew that this plant is the most proper food during famine which can prevent deaths. Therefore, Qajar government tried to expand the cultivation of this plant. Since ordinary people knew nothing about the potato its cultivation and consumption, Qajar statesmen wrote articles in newspapers and books about the benefits of potato and its cultivation in order to inform the community. Research achievements indicate that with the king’s support and common people's intention towards this new food in 50 years, potato had become the most important food source of Iranians after wheat.