Which option accurately describes the impact the Columbian Exchange had on the indigenous people of the Americas?
Responses
A) The Columbian Exchange led to the forced relocation and enslavement of Indigenous people, and the spread of diseases like smallpox decimated entire populations. Native societies were disrupted and their cultures eroded, leading to the loss of traditional knowledge and practices.
B) The Columbian Exchange brought new resources and technologies to Indigenous communities, allowing them to thrive and flourish. They were able to establish trade relationships with Europeans and benefit from increased economic opportunities.
The Columbian Exchange had a significant impact on the indigenous people of the Americas. The correct option that accurately describes this impact is:
- Option A: It led to the introduction of new diseases, such as smallpox, which caused a devastating decline in indigenous populations.
This option is accurate because the arrival of Europeans to the Americas brought with them diseases to which the indigenous people had no immunity. Diseases like smallpox, measles, and influenza rapidly spread among the indigenous populations, resulting in a drastic decrease in their numbers. It is estimated that the population decline could range from 50 to 90% in some areas. This devastating impact on the indigenous people was due to their lack of exposure and immunity to these new diseases.