Question

Based on the excerpts from Columbus' diary and Jane Yolen's encounter, do you think that the impact of Columbus' voyages was mostly negative or positive? Defend your answer with evidence from the excerpts.

Answer 1

The impact of Columbus' voyages can be seen as both positive and negative, depending on the perspective. The Columbian Exchange introduced new crops and animals, revolutionizing the lifestyle of various continents. However, the exchange also led to the spread of European diseases, causing significant depopulation.

Step-by-step explanation:

The impact of Columbus' voyages can be seen as both positive and negative, depending on the perspective. On the positive side, Columbus' voyages resulted in the Columbian Exchange, which introduced new crops and animals to Europe, Asia, and Africa, revolutionizing their lifestyle. For example, commodities like cattle, horses, tea, and coffee were introduced to the New World, while products like tobacco, potatoes, chocolate, corn, and tomatoes made their way from the New World into the Old World. However, not all exchanges were beneficial, as European diseases caused significant depopulation in the New World.