How did the Columbian Exchange impact Europe during the age of Exploration?(2points)

The Columbian Exchange had a profound impact on Europe during the Age of Exploration in several ways:

1. **Introduction of New Crops and Food Sources**: The exchange brought a variety of new agricultural products to Europe, such as potatoes, tomatoes, maize (corn), and chocolate. These crops became staples in European diets and contributed to population growth, improved nutrition, and agricultural diversification. The introduction of the potato, in particular, was significant in countries like Ireland, where it became a fundamental part of the diet.

2. **Economic Expansion and Trade**: The Columbian Exchange facilitated the growth of new trade networks and markets. The influx of New World commodities, including sugar, tobacco, and cotton, stimulated European economies and led to the rise of new industries and trade practices. This also contributed to the development of mercantilism and increased competition among European powers for colonial resources, further driving exploration and colonization efforts.

Overall, the Columbian Exchange significantly transformed European agriculture, economies, and societal structures, setting the stage for further developments in the modern world.