Question

how did the columbian exchange contribute to an increase in europes population?
○ additional amounts of gold and silver boosted the european economy.
○ new inventions from the americas helped europeans travel and communicate faster.
○ new foods like the potato provided sustenance (strength and nourishment) to europeans
○ natives and europeans married each other.

Explanation:

To determine the correct answer, we analyze each option:

• The first option about gold and silver boosting the economy does not directly relate to population increase through sustenance.
• The second option about new inventions from the Americas is incorrect as the Americas did not have advanced inventions to aid travel/communication in a way that directly increased population.
• The third option: New foods like potatoes from the Americas were introduced to Europe via the Columbian Exchange. Potatoes are highly nutritious and could be grown in various climates, providing a stable food source that reduced starvation and malnutrition, thus supporting population growth.
• The fourth option about intermarriage between natives and Europeans was not a primary factor in the overall population increase of Europe.

Answer:

C. New foods like the potato provided sustenance (strength and nourishment) to Europeans