
The major exchange between the two worlds centered on the exchange of plants, animals, and diseases. The cargo and people that Columbus brought with him on the second voyage started a ‘grand exchange’ and revolution between the New World and the Old World that would alter the world forever because he had brought with him seeds, plants and livestock that were not originally occurring in the New World.

A second important aspect of Columbus’ legacy was that his second voyage to the New World in 1493 led to the Columbian Exchange. Therefore, Columbus can be credited with beginning the major explorations of the New World by numerous other European explorers. The letter was important in helping spread the news of Columbus’ discovery and inspired others to follow in his footsteps. As well, he wrote about his belief that he had sailed to the Indian Ocean and that we had arrived near mainland China. In the letter, he discussed his findings, including wealth and people. In fact, Columbus had written a letter while still aboard the ships on the return trip home, which was later published and spread news of the voyage throughout the rest of Europe.

For instance, Columbus kept a journal of his voyage and upon returning home he spread news of his findings which fundamentally altered the world.

While some Vikings had arrived in North America some 400 years earlier, Columbus’ arrival in 1492 marked the first recorded visit by Europeans to the area. As such, the first important thing to consider as a positive element of Columbus’ legacy is that he was the first European explorer to reach the New World.
