Exploration, Columbian Exchange, and Native American Impact (Notes - Page 1)

Vocabulary flashcards covering New World vs Old World, Columbian Exchange, motives for exploration, population changes, and changes in Native American technology and subsistence after contact.

New World

The lands of the Americas encountered by Europeans after 1492, contrasted with the Old World (Europe, Asia, Africa).

Old World

Europe, Asia, and Africa known to Europeans before the discovery of the Americas.

Columbian Exchange

The widespread transfer of plants, animals, diseases, and culture between the Americas and the Old World after Columbus's voyages; named after Christopher Columbus.

Motives for European Exploration

Religious goals (spread of Christianity), search for new trade routes and glory, desire for gold, and access to land and resources, supported by advances in maritime technology.

Diseases from the Old World

Illnesses such as smallpox, measles, and influenza brought by Europeans that devastated Native American populations after contact.

Pre-contact Native American population in Mexico

Estimated to exceed 25 million people before European contact.

Post-contact Native American population in Mexico

Significant population decline due to illnesses and other impacts of European contact.

Metal tools Introduction

Introduction of metal tools (iron/steel) to Native Americans after contact, which were more durable than previous tools.

Domestication of Animals

Introduction and adoption of domesticated animals into Native American subsistence strategies after contact, contributing to sustainability.

Subsistence Shift after Columbian Exchange

A transition from hunting and gathering to agriculture and animal domestication, enhancing long-term sustainability.