Which factor best explains why Native Americans were able to make permanent settlements? %0D%0A%0D%0A (1 point)%0D%0AResponses%0D%0A%0D%0ANative Americans began to cultivate plants for food%0D%0ANative Americans began to cultivate plants for food%0D%0A%0D%0ANative Americans began to create more complex tools and pottery%0D%0ANative Americans began to create more complex tools and pottery%0D%0A%0D%0ANative Americans discovered alternate food sources, such as shellfish%0D%0ANative Americans discovered alternate food sources, such as shellfish%0D%0A%0D%0ANative Americans wanted to to band together in large groups for protection
One factor that best explains why Native Americans were able to make permanent settlements is that they began to cultivate plants for food.
The factor that best explains why Native Americans were able to make permanent settlements is that they began to cultivate plants for food.
To determine which factor best explains why Native Americans were able to make permanent settlements, let's evaluate each response and consider the historical context.
1. Native Americans began to cultivate plants for food: This suggests that the development of agriculture played a crucial role in the ability of Native Americans to establish permanent settlements. By learning how to cultivate crops like maize, beans, and squash, they had a stable and reliable food source, which allowed them to settle in one place rather than constantly moving in search of food.
2. Native Americans began to create more complex tools and pottery: The advancement of tools and pottery indicates an improvement in technology and craftsmanship. This development may have facilitated the settlement process as it enabled Native Americans to adapt to various environmental conditions, build more durable structures, and engage in specialized activities, such as agriculture and trade.
3. Native Americans discovered alternate food sources, such as shellfish: The exploration and utilization of diverse food sources could have contributed to the establishment of permanent settlements. By expanding their diet to include shellfish, Native Americans diversified their food options, reducing their reliance on specific resources and making it easier to settle in specific locations.
4. Native Americans wanted to band together in large groups for protection: The desire for protection and security could have fostered the formation of permanent settlements. By living in larger groups, Native Americans could defend themselves more effectively against potential threats, such as rival tribes or natural dangers.
In considering these factors, it is important to note that the development of agriculture (option 1) is generally seen as having the most significant and transformative impact on Native American societies, allowing for the establishment of settled communities. Therefore, the response "Native Americans began to cultivate plants for food" is likely the best factor to explain why Native Americans were able to make permanent settlements.