The document discusses the Columbian Exchange that began with Columbus' voyages between Europe and the Americas in the late 15th century. It led to the widespread transfer of plants, animals, diseases, technology and ideas between the two regions, also known as the Old World and New World. Some key exchanges included horses and cattle from Europe to the Americas, and potatoes, tomatoes and maize from the Americas to Europe, significantly impacting populations and economies on both sides of the Atlantic.