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Colombian Exchange

Definition

The Colombian Exchange refers to the widespread exchange of plants, animals, diseases, and ideas between the Eastern and Western hemispheres that occurred after Christopher Columbus's voyages in 1492. This exchange had a profound impact on the world by connecting previously isolated regions and transforming global trade.

Analogy

Imagine you have two separate groups of friends who never met each other before. But one day, they all come together for a big party where they share their favorite foods, music, and even dance moves. That's what the Colombian Exchange was like - it brought different cultures together and allowed them to learn from one another.

Related terms

Cultural Diffusion: Cultural diffusion is the spreading of cultural beliefs, practices, or ideas from one society to another through interactions such as trade or migration.

Global Trade: Global trade refers to the exchange of goods and services across international borders. It played a significant role in the Colombian Exchange by facilitating the movement of valuable resources between continents.

Mercantilism: Mercantilism was an economic policy during this time period that aimed to increase a nation's wealth by exporting more than importing. It influenced how countries participated in global trade during the Colombian Exchange era.