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Transatlantic Trade

Definition

Transatlantic trade refers to the exchange of goods, resources, and ideas between Europe, Africa, and the Americas across the Atlantic Ocean. It played a vital role in the emergence of global markets during the Age of Exploration.

Analogy

Transatlantic trade is like an international shopping mall where different regions come together to exchange products and cultures. Just like people from different countries gather at a mall to buy and sell items, transatlantic trade allowed for the exchange of goods between Europe, Africa, and the Americas.

Related terms

Columbian Exchange: The Columbian Exchange describes the widespread transfer of plants, animals, diseases, technologies, culture, and ideas between the Old World (Europe) and New World (Americas) following Christopher Columbus' arrival in 1492.

Triangular Trade: Triangular trade was a system of transatlantic trade routes that connected Europe, Africa, and the Americas. It involved exchanging manufactured goods from Europe for enslaved Africans in Africa who were then transported to work on plantations in the Americas.

Mercantilism: Mercantilism was an economic theory prevalent during this time period that promoted government regulation of economic activity to increase national wealth through exports while limiting imports.