Columbian exchange.
Definition
The widespread transfer of plants, animals, diseases, culture, and ideas between the Americas and the Old World (Europe, Africa, Asia) following Columbus's voyages beginning in 1492. It dramatically transformed ecosystems, diets, and populations on both sides of the Atlantic.
Examples
Real-world.
- 1 Potatoes and corn from the Americas becoming staple crops in Europe and Africa
- 2 Smallpox and measles devastating indigenous American populations
- 3 Horses introduced to the Americas transforming Native American cultures on the Great Plains
Key Fact
Some estimates suggest that up to 90% of the indigenous American population died from Old World diseases.
Studied in