Effects Of The Columbian Exchange

When Columbus sailed the Atlantic in 1492, he believed he had landed in the East Indies. Though he had actually landed in the Americas, his voyage began a process that would go on to change the world forever. The first place Columbus landed was an island in the Bahamas in the Caribbean Sea, which he claimed for Spain and named San Salvador. Because he was interested in gold, he continued exploring and subsequently claiming more islands. When he returned to Spain, the Spanish rulers were ecstatic and agreed to fund three more voyages. Columbus returned the Americas and continued claiming islands as Spanish colonies. The Columbian Exchange (named after Columbus, though influenced by many) was one of the most important effects of Columbus' voyages to the Americas. Ships returning from the Americas brought with them foreign plants and animals that Europeans, Africans, and Asians had never seen before. These included pineapples, tobacco, cacao beans (chocolate), tomatoes, squash, and turkeys. Corn and potatoes, two of these crops, were critical because of how inexpensive and nutritious they are. They allowed for population growth and became staples in much of the world In addition to Europeans bringing back American goods, they also transported

A dramatic growth in overseas trade combined with the new wealth found in the Americas caused a boom in European and business trade practices. One of the changes brought about by this economic revolution was the rise and growth of capitalism. Now, instead of all wealth being held by the government, numerous independent merchants were obtaining large amounts of wealth. The merchants were then able to reinvest their wealth in other enterprises, which caused business across Europe to flourish. However, the increase in the money supply of nations caused by an influx of gold and silver throughout Europe also caused inflation (a rise in