Definition: Columbian Exchange (scroll down for answer)       Definition Columbian Exchange One of the greatest examples of cultural diffusion, the Columbian Exchange was the trading of all plants, animals, resources, and diseases between the Old and New Worlds. Did you know that in 1491 there were no pumpkins in Europe? To Europe came peanuts, avocados, turkey, pumpkin, corn, and potatoes. To the New World came horses, rice, wheat, cows, olives, and diseases like smallpox and influenza. The transfer of disease ultimately depleted Native American populations. Slaves became more prevalent, as they were immune to such diseases because of centuries of European contact.   Click here for next flash card.      Back to eFlashcard headquarters