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Questions 6–8 refer to the following engraving from the late 16th century: a2 ...

Oct 5, 2023

Questions 6–8 refer to the following engraving from the late 16th century: a2 What enabled the Europeans to conquer the Native American peoples? A There were no powerful Native American empires — only weak bands of nomads. B The European invaders greatly outnumbered the Native Americans they encountered. C The Europeans had advanced military technology and also brought with them diseases which ravaged native populations. D The Native Americans were subdued because they were pagans and refused to accept Christianity.

Key Concept

KC-1.2.II: Contact among Europeans, Native Americans, and Africans resulted in the Columbian Exchange and significant social, cultural, and political changes on both sides of the Atlantic Ocean.

Explanation

The Europeans were able to conquer the Native American peoples primarily due to their advanced military technology, including firearms and steel weapons, which were far superior to the weapons used by the Native Americans. Additionally, the Europeans brought with them diseases such as smallpox and measles, to which the Native Americans had no immunity. These diseases decimated the native populations, making them easier to conquer. The other options are not entirely accurate. While there were indeed some nomadic bands among the Native Americans, there were also powerful empires such as the Aztec and Inca. The Europeans did not greatly outnumber the Native Americans; in fact, the opposite was true. The Native Americans' religious beliefs did not play a significant role in their conquest.

What is the Columbian Exchange?, What impact did European diseases have on Native American populations?, What were some of the advanced military technologies used by the Europeans?