GLOBAL EXCHANGE ESTABLISHED

The beginnings of the first world market began with the European exploration and technology advancements in travel, ship and navigation. These improvements and discoveries brought the explorers out further to establish trading posts and settlements with the people of Middle East Asia and Africa. The Columbian exchange was established and trade amongst the Europeans and the Natives began. Voila...we have a global marketplace thanks to Christopher Columbus. This was the first major trading between the Old World and the New World. The term Columbian Exchange was exactly brought about from Historian, Alfred W. Crosby in 1972 from his book The Columbian Exchange.

The general population on both sides was greatly affected by this newly established trading exchange as Europeans brought: plants, weapons, and animals. The most important being the horse that was introduced to the Native American population. New foods were introduced on all parties involved in the Eastern and Western hemispheres. Vegetables and spices that one country had never experienced, would now become a staple to their native land.

Unfortunately the Europeans brought the smallpox, flu, and measles to the Native Americans and nearly wiped them out, and it is estimated that from 1492 until 1800 their population dropped from over 5 million to only 600,000. In return, the Europeans also took the Syphillis disease back to their homeland from travels abroad. Ultimately, the world was now exposed to global trading, gaining new experiences, and new eco-systems have begun.

One more important note to add about the Columbian Exchange and Global Market Economy. Europeans also introduced the peanut to SouthEast Asia and Africa where it took hold and produced large yields. This is quite important because where would the world be without peanut butter!!!!