how did missions help establish a spanish presence in the southwest?

The missions were staffed by Catholic padres. They served the people in the surrounding areas.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spanish_missions_in_New_Mexico

Missions played a crucial role in establishing a Spanish presence in the Southwest. Here's an explanation of how missions helped accomplish this:

1. Conversion to Christianity: One of the primary objectives of missions was to convert Native Americans to Christianity. Spanish missionaries, such as the Franciscans, established missions as religious outposts to spread the Catholic faith. By converting the indigenous population, the Spanish hoped to solidify their influence in the region.

2. Cultural Assimilation: Alongside religious conversion, the missions aimed to assimilate Native Americans into Spanish culture. Native peoples were taught Spanish language, customs, and practices, which facilitated cultural integration and helped establish a Spanish presence. By promoting Spanish culture, the missions strengthened Spanish control in the Southwest.

3. Political Control: The missions were not only religious institutions but also centers of political control. Spanish authorities controlled the missions and appointed military and civil officials to oversee their operations. This allowed the Spanish government to exert its authority over the region and maintain a firm grip on the native population.

4. Economic Development: Missions contributed significantly to economic development in the Southwest. They introduced European agricultural techniques and livestock to the region, resulting in the establishment of self-sustaining agricultural communities. The missions also served as trading hubs, fostering commercial exchanges between Spanish settlers and Native Americans. The economic prosperity of the missions further solidified Spanish influence in the area.

In summary, missions helped establish a Spanish presence in the Southwest by promoting religious conversion, cultural assimilation, political control, and economic development. These factors combined to create a lasting impact on the region's history and demographics.