answer in one sentence.

Question

1. What did the Columbian Exchange
take from the Americas, and what
did it bring?

2. What is capitalism?

3. Why were colonies important to
European mercantilism

As you read, note some cause-and-effect relationships relating to the
European colonization of the Americas.

Causes
Event/Trend
Effects

1. Columbian Exchange

2. Global trade

3. Inflation

4. Formation of joint-stock
companies

5. Growth of mercantilism

Answer 1

1. The Columbian Exchange took crops like potatoes and maize from the Americas and brought livestock, grains, and diseases to the New World.

2. Capitalism is an economic system characterized by private ownership of the means of production and the pursuit of profit.

3. Colonies were important to European mercantilism as they provided raw materials and served as markets for the finished goods produced by the mother country, thus enhancing economic wealth and power.

Cause-and-Effect Relationships:

1. Columbian Exchange

   • Event/Trend: Introduction of new crops and diseases
   • Effects: Population growth in Europe and devastating epidemics in the Americas.

2. Global trade

   • Event/Trend: Expansion of markets and trade networks
   • Effects: Increased wealth and competition among European nations.

3. Inflation

   • Event/Trend: Influx of precious metals from the Americas
   • Effects: Rise in prices and changes in economic practices in Europe.

4. Formation of joint-stock companies

   • Event/Trend: Investment pooling for overseas ventures
   • Effects: Increased exploration and colonization efforts.

5. Growth of mercantilism

   • Event/Trend: Emphasis on accumulating wealth through trade
   • Effects: Expansion of empires and competition for resources globally.