In 3–5 sentences, answer the following question: Why did European trade lead to greater global interdependence?

European trade led to greater global interdependence because it opened up new routes and connections between different regions of the world. The establishment of trading networks allowed for the exchange of goods, technology, ideas, and even diseases across different continents. This led to the integration of economies and cultures, contributing to a more interconnected and interdependent world. Additionally, European powers often imposed their influence and control over the regions they traded with, further deepening the interdependence between different parts of the world.

In 3–5 sentences, describe the ways in which Muslim merchants created a bridge between Europe and the Far East in the Middle Ages

In the Middle Ages, Muslim merchants played a crucial role in creating a bridge between Europe and the Far East. They established extensive trade networks, known as the Silk Road and Spice Trade, which connected the two regions. Muslim merchants acted as intermediaries, facilitating the exchange of goods, ideas, and technologies between Europe and the Far East. They introduced new products, such as spices, silk, and porcelain, to Europe, while also carrying goods like furs, precious metals, and textiles from Europe to the Far East. This trade not only enriched Europe economically, but also fostered cultural exchange and cross-cultural interactions.

In 1–2 sentences, analyze the effects of human migration on the Americas during the Columbian Exchange

The effects of human migration during the Columbian Exchange on the Americas were both devastating and transformative, as it brought diseases such as smallpox and measles that decimated indigenous populations, while also introducing new crops, animals, and cultural influences that permanently altered the landscape and societies of the region.

In 1–2 sentences, use one of the primary sources discussed in this lesson to create an argument about the significance of the Columbian Exchange and the transatlantic slave system to European expansion

"Letter from Christopher Columbus to Luis de Santangel" illustrates the significance of the Columbian Exchange and the transatlantic slave system in European expansion by highlighting Columbus' exploration as a means to acquire wealth and resources, including slaves, for the Spanish Crown, thereby establishing a pattern of exploitation and colonization that fueled further European expansion and domination in the Americas.