How did the Columbian Exchange alter the environments of the Americas?

The Columbian Exchange significantly altered the environments of the Americas through the introduction of new species and diseases. European explorers and settlers brought diseases like smallpox and influenza, which decimated Native American populations, leading to a drastic decline of over 95% in some areas.12

The introduction of Old World animals such as horses, cattle, pigs, sheep, and goats transformed landscapes. These animals grazed extensively, altering vegetation and competing with native species. Horses, in particular, revolutionized the lives of Plains Indians, enhancing their hunting and warfare capabilities.1

Conversely, American crops like corn, potatoes, and cassava were introduced to other continents, profoundly impacting global agriculture and population growth. However, the exchange was largely one-sided regarding diseases, with devastating consequences for the indigenous peoples of the Americas.1