Trivia Fun Times Forever and Ever!!!!! What were the reasons for European exploration? What made European exploration possible? Why was Christopher Columbus’ discovery so important? What city was St. Patrick’s Day first celebrated back in 1737? (Hint: It’s in Merica)

The Columbian Exchange

Background - Colonization European land grab Spain and Portugal first to establish colonies Aztecs and Incas are conquered Treaty of Tordesillas resolved territory disputes Other Europeans powers get involved – England, France, Dutch

Food Crops and Animals Columbian exchange increases overall food supply Population increases Introduction to European animals to Americas Horses, cattle, pigs, chickens, etc. Introduction of American crops to Europe, Asia, Africa Maize, potatoes, beans, tomatoes, tobacco, peppers, cocoa, etc.

Epidemic Diseases and Population Decline Smallpox Also measles, diphtheria, whooping cough, influenza No prior exposure to these diseases in Western Hemisphere No inherited, acquired immunities 1519 smallpox in Aztec Empire Population declines 90% within 100 years (17 million to 1.3 million)