5. What played a significant role in reducing the native population, besides warfare, during the Spanish conquest?
(1 point)
a. Famine
b. Natural disasters
Oc Disease, especially smallpox
Od Religious conflicts
c. Disease, especially smallpox.
The correct answer is:
c. Disease, especially smallpox
To determine the correct answer, we need to analyze the options given and consider their historical context.
Option a. Famine: While it is true that famine can be a factor in population decline, it may not be the primary cause during the Spanish conquest. Additionally, the question specifically asks for factors besides warfare, so we can exclude this option as warfare is already mentioned.
Option b. Natural disasters: Similar to famine, natural disasters can contribute to population decline. However, in the context of the Spanish conquest, it is unlikely to have been a significant factor, especially since the question specifically mentions factors other than warfare.
Option c. Disease, especially smallpox: This option is highly likely to be the correct answer. Smallpox, along with other European diseases, played a significant role in reducing the native population during the Spanish conquest. The indigenous people had no immunity to these diseases, making them highly susceptible to epidemics that ravaged their population.
Option d. Religious conflicts: While religious conflicts did occur during the Spanish conquest, they were not necessarily a significant factor in reducing the native population compared to warfare and diseases. Religious conflicts mostly influenced the cultural and political aspects of colonization, rather than directly impacting the population size.
Considering these factors, the most likely correct answer is option c. Disease, especially smallpox.