Trade and diffusion are both closely tied to interaction, so it is easy to let the distinction between them get a little loose in your thinking. But consider these points, with your clear analytical thinking powers:
Both the Columbian Exchange and the Triangle Trade involve interaction across the Atlantic, and both are associated with diffusion. Further, many students were familiar with the Triangle Trade before they learned about diffusion and the Columbian Exchange, so it would be unsurprising if they attached the CE to their mental framework about the TT without thinking through the details. Here are some points to consider about this question:
This is a natural point of confusion because we defined the Columbian Exchange in terms of the transformation of the Atlantic Ocean from a barrier to a conduit. To work through this, we need to consider the state of interaction in the world before and after that transformation.
We learned in class that geographers tend to want to know what is where, why is it there, and what difference does it make that it’s there (the “so what”). In the case of diffusion, some diffusions have relatively small consequences but others have huge, world-changing consequences. When you’re working on Activity 3 and DPI Item B, you need to find out what consequences your diffused items had at their new location, large or small. Here are some (rather large) examples:
176 Central Drive
Cullowhee, NC 28723
Administration: 828-227-7485
Reference: 828-227-7465
Circulation: 828-227-7485
Ask-A-Librarian
Reserve a Study Room
My Account
Library Catalog
Article Databases
Interlibrary Loan