Question

Which evidence provides the BEST evidence to support the conclusion that Spanish exploration and settlement had a devastating effect on the Mississippian chiefdoms of the Southeast?
a. During the two centuries following the discovery of the New World, over 90% of the native population were killed by disease and warfare.

Answer 1

"a. During the two centuries following the discovery of the New World, over 90% of the native population were killed by disease and warfare" would be the best option but it should be noted that the 90% figure has been disputed recently.

Answer 2

The BEST evidence to support the conclusion that Spanish exploration and settlement had a devastating effect on the Mississippian chiefdoms of the Southeast is that during the two centuries following the discovery of the New World, over 90% of the native population were killed by disease and warfare. The other statements are true regarding the Spanish presence in the region, but answer choice A is most indicative of the "devastating" effects of Spanish colonization. So the answer is A