What was the Columbian Exchange and how did the movement of people, animals, and goods affect the Eastern and Western Hemispheres? Objective Students will understand the importance of the Columbian Exchange and how the movement of people, animals, plants, cultures and disease influenced the Eastern and Western hemisphere. Students will also understand how the arrival of Europeans impacted the Native Americans. Background Columbus was an Italian explorer, but his journey west was funded by the rulers of Spain, King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella. In 1492, Christopher Columbus' first voyage launch Duration: 90 Minutes.