Skip to main content
Back to Show
Human Footprint

How Corn Took Over the World

In Mexico, Shane Campbell-Staton explores around a maize vault, a treasure trove of genetic diversity. He joins geneticist Sarah Hearne to unravel the intricate DNA makeup of corn. In a tortilla factory, Shane meets with local Mexican chefs Santiago Muñoz and Daniela Moreno, who are committed to reviving the sacred heritage of maize and preserving cultural traditions through corn.

Support Provided By
Human Footprint Season 1
Unlock with PBS Passport
54:53
Shane explores the Human Footprint of cotton, from ancient rocks to 21st-century politics.
The Urban Jungle
Unlock with PBS Passport
55:12
Shane explores three thriving urban species and envisions a wilder future for our cities.
The Replacements
Unlock with PBS Passport
55:21
Shane meets five species that made allies of humans.
Man's Best Friend
Unlock with PBS Passport
55:23
Shane’s love of dogs turns to awe as he discovers their profound impacts on humans.
Top Predator
Unlock with PBS Passport
55:24
From Yellowstone to Mozambique, discover the impact of the planet’s Top Predator: us.
Earth Month
Strangers In Paradise
Unlock with PBS Passport
55:11
Shane tracks down four invasive species that make him reconsider what it means to belong.
Active loading indicator