Lesson 20 of 84 ยท Colonization
โญ 30 XPThe Columbian Exchange: Foods, Animals, and Diseases
The Columbian Exchange was a significant event that occurred after Christopher Columbus's voyages to the Americas.
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The Columbian Exchange was a significant event that occurred after Christopher Columbus's voyages to the Americas. This exchange involved the transfer of foods, animals, and diseases between the New World and the Old World. For example, crops like potatoes and tomatoes were introduced to Europe, while horses and cattle were brought to the Americas. However, this exchange also included harmful diseases, such as smallpox, which devastated native populations in the Americas.
Key Facts
The Columbian Exchange began in the late 15th century.
Potatoes and corn became staple foods in Europe after being introduced from the Americas.
Diseases brought by Europeans led to the decline of many Indigenous populations.
Check Your Understanding
Question 1
1 of 2What was a major effect of the Columbian Exchange on Indigenous populations?
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