The Columbian Exchange

Definition

Columbian Exchange: Transfer of diseases, food, plants, people, and animals between the Eastern and Western Hemispheres.

European exploration for water routes to the East Indies led to the contact between the New World and the Old World.
Christopher Columbus's expedition led to the discovery of new continents, initiating this exchange.

Europeans brought diseases to the Americas:
- Malaria: Introduced by mosquitoes brought with enslaved Africans; killed millions of indigenous Americans.
- Measles: Highly contagious, spread rapidly in densely populated areas.
- Smallpox: Devastating impact, killed up to 90% of the indigenous populations in some areas, referred to as the "Great Dying."
The introduction of these diseases had significant demographic consequences that facilitated European conquest.
Debate exists regarding whether diseases were intentionally introduced by Europeans.

To the Americas:
- European staples: Wheat, grapes, olives.
- Asian/African foods: Bananas, sugar.
From the Americas:
- Maize, potatoes, manioc introduced to Europe, increasing population growth due to diversified diets.
- These crops also introduced to Africa and Asia.
Cash Crops:
- Plantation agriculture in the Americas, such as sugarcane in Caribbean colonies, cultivated by enslaved Africans.
- Exported to Europe and the Middle East.
Enslaved Africans contributed new foods like okra and rice to the Americas.

Europeans introduced domesticated animals: Pigs, sheep, cattle, and horses.
Economic Impacts:
- Foundation for future ranching economies.
- Environmental consequences: Grazing by sheep led to erosion.
Cultural Impacts:
- Horses revolutionized hunting practices for several indigenous peoples in North America.

The Columbian Exchange significantly altered world history by reshaping global populations, agriculture, and societies.
Check resources for further study, such as the Heimler Review Guide for AP World History.