Which infectious disease led to the deaths of many Native Americans during Spanish contact?

Which infectious disease led to the deaths of many Native Americans during Spanish contact?

• A. Culture
• B. Small Pox
• C. Charter of 1732
• D. Savannah

Answer: (B)

Infectious disease brought by Europeans had a devastating impact on Native American populations during Spanish contact. Smallpox spread quickly among communities with no prior exposure or immunity, leading to massive mortality and weakening societies just as European powers were expanding their reach. Because smallpox fits the historical record as a major killer after contact, it stands out as the correct explanation for the widespread deaths. The other options are not diseases and therefore don’t explain the deaths.

Infectious disease brought by Europeans had a devastating impact on Native American populations during Spanish contact. Smallpox spread quickly among communities with no prior exposure or immunity, leading to massive mortality and weakening societies just as European powers were expanding their reach. Because smallpox fits the historical record as a major killer after contact, it stands out as the correct explanation for the widespread deaths. The other options are not diseases and therefore don’t explain the deaths.