According to the excerpt, the most significant factor in the Spanish conquest of the Aztecs and Incas was "disease." The text suggests that many Native Americans died from European diseases and that some historians believe disease alone would have ensured Spanish victory.
How were the Spanish able to conquer two great empires
with only a handful of soldiers? First, the Spanish had
superior military equipment. They were protected by steel
armor and had guns. The Aztecs and Incas relied on clubs,
bows and arrows, and spears. Also, the Native Americans
had never seen horses. They were frightened by mounted
Spanish soldiers.
In addition, the Native Americans did not fight as hard as
they might have. The Aztecs hesitated to attack at first
because they thought the Spanish might be gods. The Incas
were weak from fighting among themselves over control of
their government.
Finally, many Native Americans died from European
diseases, such as smallpox, measles, and influenza. Some
historians believe that disease alone would have ensured
Spanish victory over the Native Americans.
According to this excerpt from the text, which was the most
significant factor in the Spanish conquest of the Aztecs and
Incas?
(1 point)
horses
disease
armor
guns
1 answer