The Columbian Exchange

Flashcards covering the definition, causes, and effects of the Columbian Exchange.

Columbian Exchange Definition

The transfer of new diseases, food, plants, people, and animals between the Eastern and Western hemispheres after contact between the New World and the Old World.

Causes of the Columbian Exchange

European states sponsored sea-based explorations to find water routes to the East Indies for spices. Christopher Columbus's voyage led to contact between the New World and the Old World, initiating the exchange.

Disease Transfer (Columbian Exchange Effect)

Transfer of diseases (like malaria, measles, and smallpox) from Afro-Eurasia to the Americas, resulting in devastating population decline among indigenous peoples.

Plant and Food Exchange (Columbian Exchange Effect)

Europeans introduced wheat, grapes, olives, bananas and sugar to the Americas, diversifying diets, which led to increased lifespans. New World crops like maize, potatoes, and manioc were introduced to Europe, also diversifying diets and causing significant population growth.

Cash Cropping Definition and Example

Agriculture in which food is grown primarily for export, exemplified by European-controlled plantations growing sugarcane in the Caribbean using coerced labor (enslaved Africans).

Animal Exchange (Columbian Exchange Effect)

Europeans introduced domesticated animals like pigs, sheep, and cattle to the Americas, leading to ranching economies but also causing environmental issues like erosion due to overgrazing. The horse was introduced as well, transforming indigenous societies by enhancing hunting efficiency.