Objective 1.4: Columbian Exchange

Flashcards covering key vocabulary related to the causes and effects of the Columbian Exchange on Europe and the Americas, as discussed in Objective 1.4.

Columbian Exchange

One of the largest ecological transfers of goods, plants, animals, and diseases between the Old World and the New World, named after Columbus's route.

Feudal System

A social and economic structure in Europe prior to and directly after Columbus, organized in a triangle with kings at the top, nobility/landowners in the middle, and peasants/serfs at the bottom who paid rent through cultivated goods.

New World

The Americas (North America, South America, Mesoamerica) as referred to by Europeans after their discovery.

Old World

Europe, Asia, and Africa, from which Europeans initiated the Columbian Exchange.

Mercantilism

An economic theory where a mother country aims to gain as much wealth as possible by ensuring all wealth stays within its country, primarily by selling more than buying and using colonies for raw resources.

Joint Stock Companies

A form of business organization where individual investors contribute money to an exploration or venture, and in return, receive a share of the profits if successful, spreading the risk and cost.

Smallpox

A highly contagious European disease that had a devastating effect on Native American populations due to their lack of immunity.

African Slave Trade

The forced transportation of enslaved Africans to the Americas, primarily for labor, after Native American populations declined due to disease and brutal enslavement.

Horses

An animal introduced by Europeans to the New World; they facilitated the creation of more nomadic groups among Native Americans, especially in the Great Plains, by making travel and hunting easier.

Guns

Weapons introduced by Europeans to Native Americans, altering warfare and creating military and political alliances, often for survival.

Alcohol

A substance introduced by Europeans to Native Americans, leading to widespread abuse and addiction problems among populations not previously exposed to it.

God, Gold, and Glory

The primary motivations for Spanish exploration and colonization in the New World: spreading Christianity (Catholicism), seeking economic prosperity (especially gold), and gaining extra land/reputation.

Tobacco

A major cash crop discovered in the New World by Europeans, becoming agriculturally important, particularly for the British in the Virginia area.

Potatoes and Tomatoes

New World crops that became staples in European diets, significantly contributing to a diversity of food and nutrients.

Cattle, Sheep, Pigs

Livestock introduced by Europeans to the New World, increasing food production for Native Americans but also spreading new diseases due to close proximity and lack of immunity.

Disrupted Ecosystems

A consequence of the Columbian Exchange resulting from the introduction of invasive species like European bees and livestock, altering the natural environment of the New World.

Sugarcane

A European crop introduced to the Caribbean, leading to the enslavement and exploitation of Native Americans for its labor-intensive production.