Question

Explain ONE way in which the biological impact referred to in the passage differed from other encounters between the Americas and Europe/Africa in the period c. 1450-1750.

A) How did the biological impact differ from other encounters?
a) It led to the exchange of new technologies.
b) It resulted in the rapid spread of diseases.
c) It promoted peaceful trade relationships.
d) It had no impact on either region.

Answer 1

The rapid spread of diseases from Europe to the Americas during the Columbian Exchange led to catastrophic epidemics that decimated up to 90% of the Native American population, differing greatly from the generally beneficial transfer of goods, ideas, and technologies of other encounters.

Step-by-step explanation:

The biological impact of the Columbian Exchange differed from other encounters between the Americas and Europe/Africa in the period c. 1450-1750 significantly through the rapid spread of diseases. This transfer of pathogens led to devastating epidemics that decimated indigenous populations of the Americas, who had no natural resistance. In contrast to the exchange of technologies or the establishment of peaceful trade relationships, the introduction of diseases such as smallpox resulted in the loss of up to 90% of the Native American population.

The invasive diseases did not only cause immediate loss of life but also destabilized entire societies by eroding cultural traditions and social structures as the older generation, which held knowledge and legacy, was hit hardest.