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Columbian Exchange

Definition

The Columbian Exchange refers to the widespread transfer of plants, animals, culture, human populations, technology, diseases, and ideas between the Americas and the Old World in the 15th and 16th centuries following Christopher Columbus's voyages.

Analogy

Imagine if you swapped your lunch with a friend at school. You both get new foods that you didn't have before - this is similar to how different continents received new crops, livestock, and diseases during the Columbian Exchange.

Related terms

Triangular Trade: A system where slaves were traded for goods between Europe, Africa and America during colonial times.

Globalization: The process by which businesses or other organizations develop international influence or start operating on an international scale.

Old World vs New World Foods/Crops/Animals/Diseases: Refers to those species native either to Old World (Africa/Europe/Asia) or New World (Americas) prior to Columbus's voyage.