ECONOMICS (CBSE/UGC NET)

Detailed explanation-1: -The exchange introduced a wide range of new calorically rich staple crops to the Old World-namely potatoes, sweet potatoes, maize, and cassava. The primary benefit of the New World staples was that they could be grown in Old World climates that were unsuitable for the cultivation of Old World staples.

Detailed explanation-2: -Although, this time period was very brutal for the Native Americans, the Columbian Exchange resulted in the transmitting of new technologies, an increase in remedies and cures for diseases, and a growth in resources such as food that helped to improve life.

Detailed explanation-3: -Possibly the most dramatic, immediate impact of the Columbian Exchange was the spread of diseases. In places where the local population had no or little resistance, especially the Americas, the effect was horrific. Prior to contact, indigenous populations thrived across North and South America.

Detailed explanation-4: -Though there were positive effects, the Columbian Exchange had a long-lasting negative impact. Christopher Columbus’s arrival in the Americas facilitated the exchange of plants, animals and diseases between the Old and New Worlds. For generations, Christopher Columbus was considered a hero of American history.

Detailed explanation-5: -The Columbian Exchange resulted in an increase in global trade, with a wider variety of goods available on both sides of the Atlantic. New food sources spurred population growth in Europe, while new diseases wiped out much of the native population in the Americas.