Week 7: Slide (10) Alfred Crosby Flashcards
Who was Alfred Crosby?
Alfred Crosby was an American historian, author, and professor known for his influential work on environmental history and the concept of the “Columbian Exchange.”
His research focused on the ecological and biological consequences of European exploration and colonization, which dramatically reshaped ecosystems, societies, and populations worldwide.
What is Alfred Crosby’s “Columbian Exchange” theory?
The “Columbian Exchange” theory, introduced by Alfred Crosby, describes the widespread transfer of plants, animals, culture, human populations, technology, and diseases between the Americas, Europe, Africa, and Asia following Columbus’s voyages.
This exchange had profound and often devastating effects on Indigenous populations and ecosystems.
Why is Alfred Crosby considered a key figure in environmental history?
A. He discovered new animal species in the Americas
B. He was the first to map the Americas
C. He opposed all forms of environmental change
D. He developed theories on how ecological changes impacted historical events
D
Explanation: Crosby’s work, particularly his concept of the Columbian Exchange, highlighted the role of ecological factors in shaping human history, making him a foundational figure in environmental history studies.
Define “Ecological Imperialism” in Alfred Crosby’s work.
“Ecological Imperialism” is a concept developed by Alfred Crosby, which argues that European colonial success was heavily influenced by the environmental changes they brought to new lands.
By introducing non-native plants, animals, and diseases, Europeans unintentionally altered local ecosystems, often to their own advantage and to the detriment of Indigenous populations.
True/False
True or False: Alfred Crosby’s theories emphasize that European success in colonization was only due to military and technological superiority.
False
Explanation: Crosby’s theories suggest that European success was not only due to military and technological factors but also to ecological factors. The introduction of European plants, animals, and diseases significantly impacted Indigenous societies, aiding European expansion and dominance.
Which of the following books was written by Alfred Crosby?
A. Guns, Germs, and Steel
B. The Columbian Exchange
C. A People’s History of the United States
D. The Wealth of Nations
B. The Columbian Exchange
Explanation: Alfred Crosby wrote The Columbian Exchange, a pioneering work that examines the biological and ecological impacts of European contact with the Americas. This book is one of his most influential contributions to environmental history.
In what year did the Columbian Exchange begin?
A) 1450
B) 1492
C) 1500
D) 1519
B
Fill-in-the-Blank
The Columbian Exchange led to a massive increase in __________ transmission between continents.
species
Fill-in-the-Blank
Alfred Crosby’s book on the Columbian Exchange was published in the year __________.
1972
Fill-in-the-Blank
Alfred Crosby’s 1986 book discussed the concept of __________ __________, which explains the idea of European species dominating new environments.
Ecological Imperialism
True or False: The Columbian Exchange was primarily beneficial to indigenous populations in the Americas.
Answer: False
Explanation: The Columbian Exchange was catastrophic for indigenous populations due to the introduction of deadly diseases, which they had no immunity to, and other disruptive ecological impacts.
True or False: New World crops such as maize and potatoes had a positive impact on European diets.
Answer: True
Explanation: Crops like maize and potatoes became staple foods in Europe, leading to improved nutrition and supporting population growth.
Why were the ecological impacts of the Columbian Exchange considered “commonly catastrophic” for the Americas?
The introduction of new species, diseases, and invasive plants and animals disrupted the balance of indigenous ecosystems, often leading to the extinction of local species and devastation of indigenous populations.
What was the main argument of Alfred Crosby’s “Ecological Imperialism”?
Crosby argued that European dominance in new regions was partly due to the ecological impact of their introduced species, which reshaped landscapes and gave Europeans an environmental advantage in colonized lands.
