Which of the following best explains the widespread decline indigenous populations after the arrival of Spanish conquistadors?

Question

A. inability to connect with global markets
B. natural disasters
C. disease and environmental changes
D. fighting and lack of guns

Answer 1

C. disease and environmental changes

The widespread decline of indigenous populations after the arrival of Spanish conquistadors is best explained by the introduction of diseases such as smallpox and influenza, to which indigenous people had no immunity. Additionally, environmental changes brought about by colonization, such as altered land use and resource depletion, contributed to the decline. While fighting and conflict did play a role, the devastating impact of disease was the primary factor in the population decline.