Light

Transatlantic exchanges

Definition

The transatlantic exchanges refer to the transfer of people, goods, diseases, and ideas between the New World (Americas) and the Old World (Europe, Africa, Asia) following Christopher Columbus's voyage in 1492. This is also known as the Columbian Exchange.

Analogy

Think of it like a giant international potluck dinner where everyone brings something from their home to share. Europe brought horses and wheat; America brought corn and potatoes; Africa contributed with slaves; but unfortunately, Europe also unintentionally brought diseases that devastated native populations.

Related terms

Columbian Exchange: The widespread transfer of plants, animals, culture, human populations, technology, diseases between the Americas and the Old World in the 15th and 16th centuries.

Triangular Trade: A multilateral system of trading in which a country pays for its imports from one country by its exports to another. In context of transatlantic exchange it refers to trade among three ports or regions - typically England (and later Britain), West Africa and North American colonies.

Mercantilism: An economic theory that trade generates wealth and is stimulated by accumulation of profitable balances through exportation more than importation.