Final answer:
The Colombian Exchange refers to the exchange of goods, ideas, and diseases between the Old World and the New World during the 15th and 16th centuries. It involved the transfer of crops, animals, and had cultural and demographic impacts. It also led to the spread of diseases like smallpox.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Colombian Exchange refers to the widespread exchange of goods, ideas, and diseases between the Old World (Europe, Asia, and Africa) and the New World (the Americas) during the 15th and 16th centuries. It was a transformative event in world history as it had lasting impacts on both sides of the Atlantic.
One of the most significant aspects of the Colombian Exchange was the transfer of crops and animals. From the Americas, Europeans acquired crops like maize, potatoes, tomatoes, and tobacco, while they introduced wheat, barley, grapes, and livestock to the New World.
In addition to agricultural exchanges, the Colombian Exchange also facilitated cultural and demographic interactions. It brought about the spread of languages, religions, and ideas, as well as the introduction of new diseases like smallpox to the Americas, which had devastating effects on indigenous populations.
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