The Columbian Exchange

by Alfred W. Crosby

Book Overview

Thirty years ago, Alfred Crosby published a small work that illuminated a simple point, that the most important changes brought on by the voyages of Columbus were not social or political, but biological in nature. The book told the story of how 1492 sparked the movement of organisms, both large and small, in both directions across the Atlantic. This Columbian exchange, between the Old World and the New, changed the history of our planet...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0275980928
• ISBN13: 9780275980924
• Release Date: April 2003
• Publisher: ABC-Clio, LLC
• Length: 320 Pages
• Weight: 0.95 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.9" x 5.5" x 8.2"

Customer Reviews

very important book

Slim though it is, this is a powerful little book. This insightful study of the biological consequences of the great culture clash that began in 1492 changed the way I think about history and has proved to be a valuable reference. It is a must-read for anyone interested in anthropology, epidemiology, ecology or history.

The 30th anniversary edition of a classic treatise

The Columbian Exchange: Biological And Cultural Consequences Of 1942 by Alfred W. Crosby Jr. (Professor Emeritus of American Studies, History, and Geography, University of Texas - Austin) is the 30th anniversary edition of a classic treatise that shows how the voyages of Columbus caused a sweeping biological change as organisms large and small spread to both sides of the Atlantic Ocean. From the deadly toll of smallpox among the Indians of Mexico, to the introduction of Old World plants and animals to the New World, and so much more, The Columbian Exchange is a seminal, educational, and uniquely insightful contribution to Native American, Medical History, and World History Studies reference collections and reading lists.

Changed My View of History

As I read this book as a freshman in college, my understanding of the world's history changed. I had considered history to be an interplay of religion, culture, ideology, economics, and aggression. Dr. Crosby taught me that I also had to consider the movement of diseases, plants, and animals from one region to another. I was especially struck by the notion that the European conquest of the Americas just could not have happened as easily as it did without the deadly effect of Eurasian diseases on the Indians. Some other work might have brought this recognition, but I read _The_Columbian_Exchange_ first. I should add that the book is well-written and entertaining yet sober.

Not just for specialists!

It's a shame the title of this great book isn't more enticing. This is one of the best, most informative books I have ever read. It was a page turner, really, and I learned so many things about America. This book really changes a lot of ideas and perceptions! Read it!

Historical Writing at its finest

Mr. Crosby's book is the finest examination of the inter-relations of history and biology that exist today. While it is a work of serious historical research, it is also a great read and Mr. Crosby has been able to blend a lot of facts with an entertaining story. It should be read by anyone who is interested in American history.