Not only the "Irish" were kept alive by potatos, but the Russians and even much of Europe too.
Potatos also make an excellent source for Fuel too! Denatured Alcohol,(99.9% pure alcohol makes a great fuel), and a damn fine "Vodka" too.
1/4 of a potato can grow a plant that yields a couple of dozen potatos, that again can be quartered and planted to grow dozens more potatos each! ...And they bake up real nice and can be served with butter for a great meal. Makes good soup too.
Michael