Columbian Exchange & Colonialism

Columbian Exchange

The exchange of plants, animals, diseases, and technologies between the Americas and the rest of the world following Columbus's voyages.

Columbian Exchange (slavery)

As a greater need for labor arose, slaves were forced to migrate from Africa to the New World. The Americas benefited from the slave trade because the increase in labor allowed for an increase in productivity. Amount of indentured servants decreased.

Columbian Exchange (agriculture and disease)

DISEASE: Many invasive species of plants and animals came into the New World and as a result took out many native species because in the New World they had no natural predators. Also, many diseases, which the Native Americans were not immune to, the Europeans brought over ex. chicken pox. As a result, many Native Americans died. Native Americans spread syphilis to Europeans. AGRICULTURE: Agriculture became a way of exploiting underdeveloped nations. Europe used the raw materials of the America's to make themselves wealthier. Before, agriculture was primarily used as a food source for a population. Afterwards, agriculture was also used to produce commodities such as tobacco and sugar cane (meaning agriculture also became more important in global trade). The Americas gave potatoes, beans, squash and maize to Europeans. Europeans brought wheat, rice, bananas, and grapes. Coffee from Africa and sugar cane from Asia became cash crops in the newly colonized Latin America.

Columbian Exchange (colonialism)

Due to the insurgence of slaves and immigrants, new societies and social standings developed in the Americas according to race. Native American societies withered as European elites continued to conquer their land and exploit their natural resources.

Columbian Exchange (European colonialism & economic growth)

ECONOMIC GROWTH: It directly benefited the merchant class due to the increase in TRADE. The rich became richer but the lower class did not change in economic status. --Colonial mercantilism- Mercantilism: an economic practice of European colonial powers that used colonies for the benefit of the mother country

Columbian Exchange (religion)

The Europeans came to America with three intentions, gold, God and glory. The Europeans spread Christianity to Native Americans and did not adapt Native American beliefs. The Columbian Exchange's main effect on the spread of religion was that it brought Christianity to the New World.

Colony

a country or area under the full or partial political control of another country. American affected by European Colonialism.