Impact of Old World Diseases on the New World

The video explores why the indigenous population of the New World drastically declined after European arrival, primarily due to Old World diseases like smallpox. It explains the difference between regular diseases and plagues, highlighting the role of dense, unsanitary cities in spreading plagues. The lack of domesticable animals in the New World limited exposure to germs and hindered the development of large cities, preventing plagues. In contrast, the Old World had many domesticable animals, leading to dense populations and frequent plagues. The video concludes that the availability of domesticable animals was crucial for societal development and disease spread.

What was the primary reason for the drastic decline in the indigenous population of the New World after European arrival?

• Internal conflicts among tribes

• Famine and drought

• Old World diseases

• Conquistadors' military actions

Why didn't Europeans get sick from New World diseases?

• The New World lacked plagues

• They had stronger immune systems

• They avoided contact with natives

• They had vaccines

What is a key characteristic of plagues?

• They spread slowly

• They provide immunity after survival

• They are non-lethal

• They only affect animals

Why were cities crucial for the survival of plagues?

• They had clean water systems

• They were isolated from rural areas

• They had advanced medical facilities

• They provided a dense population for plagues to spread

What was a major factor in the spread of plagues in colonial cities?

• Advanced healthcare systems

• High animal population and poor hygiene

• Presence of modern sanitation

• Isolation from other regions

How do plagues typically originate?

• From environmental changes

• From water sources

• From human-to-human contact

• From animals

Why were Old World cities filled with domesticated animals?

• They were easy to domesticate

• They were used for entertainment

• They were used for transportation

• They were part of religious rituals

What was a significant consequence of the lack of domesticable animals in the New World?

• Development of advanced technology

• Increased trade with the Old World

• Formation of large empires

• Limited food production and population growth

How did domesticated animals contribute to the spread of diseases?

• They facilitated the jump of germs to humans

• They were used in medical research

• They provided a source of food

• They were immune to all diseases

What is a key factor in the domestication of animals?

• Their rarity in the wild

• Their ability to be bred and managed by humans

• Their size and strength

• Their ability to perform tricks