Final answer:
Potatoes thrived in Europe due to their minimal care requirements, ability to grow in various climates, resistance to pests and diseases, and the well-suited soil in Europe.
Step-by-step explanation:
Europeans were able to successfully cultivate potatoes because they required minimal care and could grow in a variety of climates. This made them a reliable food source that could be grown in many different regions. Additionally, potatoes were resistant to pests and diseases, which made them less susceptible to crop failures. The soil in Europe was also well-suited for potato cultivation, further contributing to their success.