The new connections between the Eastern and Western Hemispheres resulted in the exchange of new plants, animals, & diseases-- the 'Columbian Exchange'. European colonization of the Americas led to the unintentional transfer of disease vectors, including mosquitoes and rats, and the spread of diseases that were endemic in the Eastern Hemisphere, like smallpox, measles, & malaria. These diseases drastically reduced the indigenous populations. In addition, American foods became staple crops in various parts of Europe, Asia, & Africa. Also, cash crops were grown primarily on plantations with coerced labor and were exported mostly to Europe and the Middle East. Afro-Eurasian fruit trees, grains, sugar, & domesticated animals were brought by Europeans to the Americas, while other foods were brought by African slaves.