What Are The Positives And Negatives Of The Columbian Exchange

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THE COLUMBIAN EXCHANGE
This trade network across the Atlantic emerged in the 16th century after Columbus arrived in the Americas and claimed the land for Spain. There were many positives to the exchange between the Old World and the New World, including the introduction of new foods to both continents.

For example, the exchange gave potatoes and tomatoes to Europe, while the Americas gained citrus fruits and bananas. Some European crops grew even better in the New World and quickly became staples, such as sugarcane and coffee beans. Native Americans and colonists alike also found horses from Europe useful.

On the downside, the Europeans brought new diseases to the Americas. For instance, several smallpox epidemics killed many Native Americans.