The term “Columbian Exchange” and the year 1492 are two extremely defining parts of American history and life in general. The Columbian Exchange caused a swapping of crops, animals, religions, and diseases between the Americas and the Old World. This exchange of goods and animals caused a reconnection between the continents that were once joined as one large landmass, Pangaea, many years ago. The discovery of the New World by the Old World causes one to consider why the Old World was so successful and how different the world would be if the roles of discovery were reversed and the New World discovered the Old.
The Portuguese were the first kingdom to carry out an overseas exploration (p. 371). This is a shock to many because of the small size and power force of Portugal compared to many other nations. The Portuguese desired to increase trade with other nations, and they attempted to create a relationship with South Africa and began exploring the land. During this exploration, the Portuguese searched for Prester John but were
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The peoples of the New World would have probably seemed successful at first, but would not last once they faced the opposition of the Old World. The diseases that the Americans would encounter when they arrived would most likely wipe out a majority of their population, making it very difficult to remain powerful enough to overtake. The lack of immunity to these diseases was an extreme deterrent to Americans on their homeland and that would have only worsened across the ocean away from their homeland. The overall population of Africa and Eurasia was already greater than that of the Americas to begin with which already put the Americans at a disadvantage. Without power, force, and manpower, it is impossible to take over an