The Columbian Exchange: Biological and Cultural Consequences of 1492

The earth’s population quadrupled in the last three centuries due to worldwide agricultural growth initiated by the Columbian Exchange. There is a direct connection between the Columbian voyages and demographic growth, particularly in Europe. This European population expansion, in turn, meant a regular source of settlers to the regions of the world that European countries colonized, including the Americas.

Demographic growth is fueled by improvements to agriculture: “An entirely new food plant or set of food plants will permit the utilization of soils and seasons which have previously gone to waste, thus causing a real jump in food production, and therefore, population” (168). Such a phenomenon occurred all over Europe post-Columbus. The potential for famine encouraged Europeans to cultivate New World crops that they were initially hesitant to adopt. Maize became one of the most important New World crops adapted for cultivation throughout European countries and their colonies due to its high yield. Likewise, potatoes became a staple crop because they produce a great deal of food on a small amount of land and can be grown in temperate climates using relatively simple technology. Statistically, New World crops produce higher yields than