Corn is far from unsophisticated.
It has been used in many different ways throughout history. The natives of Peru and Mexico not only used corn as food, but also as building material, jewelry and even money. Native Americans taught European settlers how to plant corn, or maize, and prepare native recipes. Uses of corn go far beyond cornmeal, corn on the cob, popcorn and animal feed. Every part of the plant is utilized for food or industrial uses.