Columbian Exchange Essay
The Columbian Exchange began in 1492, as Columbus’ discovery joined the world of the Americas together with that of Eurasia and Africa. With the linking of the New and Old World’s, came the exchange of ideas and lifeforms. Plants, animals, and even disease were moving across the vast waters between these two immeasurably different worlds. The trades that were to occur would bring about immense transformation for humanity. The yields that one side held, the other did not, and visa versa. As an individual ponders the Columbian Exchange, one can understand how drastically it impacted the lives of both worlds. For me, I realize how much of what is thought to be easily accessible, was non-existent in the New World when Columbus first stepped foot
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Certainly, these domesticated creatures are taken for granted far too often. The lack of respect and appreciation for this blessing is evident as I observe some of these animals worn out and sickly from being underfed and overworked. We often gaze in amazement as horses, with abundant strength, pull the Amish buggies up the road or the mule’s aid with the plowing of fields. Clearly, these animals were wonderful gifts brought to the New World, from the Old World, serving not only as help but as a source of nutrition. Prior to horses, cattle, sheep, and goats being transported to this land, the domesticated animals that the American Indians had were dogs, alpaca and llama. These smaller creatures are not strong, working animals. Unfortunately, with the transfer of mammals, there was also the transfer of diseases that some animals, such as the black rat, brought with them. Thus, we can also see another area of life that has been taken for granted, medical care, which helps us to fight disease. Sadly, due to the lack of health care in the New World, not only did many natives die, so did many of those who came to explore the new land. It is clear that two worlds joined, through the vast seas. Consequently, both worlds were significantly changed and remain
Certainly, these domesticated creatures are taken for granted far too often. The lack of respect and appreciation for this blessing is evident as I observe some of these animals worn out and sickly from being underfed and overworked. We often gaze in amazement as horses, with abundant strength, pull the Amish buggies up the road or the mule’s aid with the plowing of fields. Clearly, these animals were wonderful gifts brought to the New World, from the Old World, serving not only as help but as a source of nutrition. Prior to horses, cattle, sheep, and goats being transported to this land, the domesticated animals that the American Indians had were dogs, alpaca and llama. These smaller creatures are not strong, working animals. Unfortunately, with the transfer of mammals, there was also the transfer of diseases that some animals, such as the black rat, brought with them. Thus, we can also see another area of life that has been taken for granted, medical care, which helps us to fight disease. Sadly, due to the lack of health care in the New World, not only did many natives die, so did many of those who came to explore the new land. It is clear that two worlds joined, through the vast seas. Consequently, both worlds were significantly changed and remain