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

Study for the GMAS 8th Grade Social Studies Test with focused flashcards and multiple choice questions complete with hints and explanations. Get ready to excel!

Multiple Choice

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

Explanation:
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.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy