The potato originated in the Andes region of South America around 7,000-10,000 years ago and was primarily consumed by indigenous people. It wasn't until the 16th century when Spanish conquistadors introduced the potato to Europe, and it slowly gained popularity. However, it was not until the late 19th and early 20th centuries that the potato became widely consumed as french fries, thanks to innovations in agriculture, food processing, and the rise of fast-food chains.
