Question

Which aspect of the Columbian Exchange was most harmful to Native Americans?

1. effect of horses on native hunting techniques
2. removal of gold and silver that formed basis of native wealth
3. introduction of infectious diseases to those who lacked immunity
4. introduction of invasive plants such as marigolds and daisies

Answer 1

Europeans brought deadly viruses and bacteria, such as smallpox, measles, typhus, and cholera, for which Native Americans had no immunity (Denevan, 1976). On their return home, European sailors brought syphilis to Europe.