Question

Why did Spain found missions and presidios? Select all that apply. (2)

Answer 1

Spain found missions and presidios A. to convert American Indians to Christianity, and C. to teach American Indians how to live as Spanish colonist.

It was a way to try that the Indians become sedentarian in the frontier of the Empire. The missionaries often learnt about the Indian culture in order to teach them Christianity in a way they would understand, but it was a non-planned effect of the establishment of missions. I any case they would want the Indians to become soldiers, because they might have turned against them.

Answer 2

A.  Yes.  The Spanish missionaries wanted to convert, practice and expand Roman Catholicism throughout the new world.

B. No, they considered the native Americans non-religious and lacking in a culture that promoted exploitation of resources.  Such as ranching and farming.

C. Yes,  as part of assimilation.  The Spanish living throughout North America, would naturally find that they could promote peace and tranquility by establishing one language, providing missions, forts for protection of the local populace and by marriage.

D. No,  The European invasion of the America's were an expression of the need for more land for the  existing European population.  The Spanish wanted more, more Land, more Wealth.  Not more soldiers