The Columbian Exchange refers to the widespread transfer of plants, animals, diseases, technology, and ideas between the Americas (the New World) and the Old World (Europe, Africa, Asia).

This exchange began following Christopher Columbus's voyages in 1492.

From the Americas to the Old World came transformative crops like potatoes, maize (corn), tomatoes, cocoa, and tobacco.

The introduction of the potato and maize to Europe, Asia, and Africa led to massive population growth.

From the Old World to the Americas came crops like wheat and sugar, and domesticated animals like horses, cattle, pigs, and sheep.

The introduction of the horse revolutionized the lives of many Native American peoples, particularly on the Great Plains.

The most devastating aspect of the exchange was the transfer of Old World diseases to the Americas.

Diseases like smallpox, measles, and influenza, to which Native Americans had no immunity, caused a catastrophic demographic collapse, killing up to 90% of the indigenous population.

The exchange also included the forced migration of millions of enslaved Africans to the Americas.

The Columbian Exchange fundamentally and permanently reshaped the ecology, agriculture, and cultures of the entire world.