In what ways did California's geography influence the building of Spanish forts and missions? (1 point) Responses Building forts and missions inland where the soil was rich provided better opportunities for farming. Building forts and missions inland where the soil was rich provided better opportunities for farming. Building forts and missions in the northern part of the state provided shelter in densely populated forests. Building forts and missions in the northern part of the state provided shelter in densely populated forests. Building forts and missions along the southern coast provided easy access to trade routes. Building forts and missions along the southern coast provided easy access to trade routes. Building forts and missions in mountainous areas near Gold Rush towns provided opportunities for wealth. Building forts and missions in mountainous areas near Gold Rush towns provided opportunities for wealth.
Building forts and missions along the southern coast provided easy access to trade routes.
The Spanish established a chain of missions along the California coast primarily for the purpose of converting the local indigenous populations to Christianity and extending Spanish territorial claims. The coastal locations were chosen for their proximity to the sea, which facilitated travel and communication with Mexico and Spain, as well as for transportation and trade. The coast provided a relatively mild climate suitable for agriculture, which was vital for sustaining the missions. Moreover, these locations were strategic points for defense against potential intruders arriving by sea. The forts (presidios) were often located near the missions to protect them and assert Spanish authority in the region.