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Set 2: Cross-Text Connections

Explanation

Answer: A

PASSAGE

Text 1 The Columbian Exchange refers to the widespread transfer of plants, animals, culture, and technology between the Americas and the Old World in the 15th and 16th centuries. Text 2 This exchange was essentially unequal. While Europe gained high-calorie crops like potatoes and corn that fueled a population boom, the Americas received infectious diseases like smallpox specifically, which caused a demographic catastrophe.

How does Text 2 evaluate the outcome of the exchange described in Text 1?

A. It characterizes the exchange as asymmetrical, benefiting the Old World while devastating the New World.✓ Correct
B. It says both sides benefited equally.
C. It claims nothing was exchanged.
D. It focuses only on animals.

Detailed Explanation

Text 1: Transfer. Text 2: Unequal. Europe = Boom (Pros). Americas = Catastrophe (Cons). Evaluation: Asymmetrical.

Key Evidence:

• "essentially unequal"

• "Europe gained"

• "Americas received ... diseases"

Why others are wrong: B (Unequal.), C (Widespread transfer.), D (Plants/Diseases.).

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