Which factor best explains why Native Americans were able to make permanent settlements?
a. native americans began to cultivate plants for food
b. native Americans began to create more complex tools and pottery
c. native Americans discovered alternate food sources, such as shellfish
d. native Americans wanted to to band together in large groups for protection
a. Native Americans began to cultivate plants for food
The factor that best explains why Native Americans were able to make permanent settlements is:
a. Native Americans began to cultivate plants for food.
By cultivating plants for food, Native Americans transitioned from a nomadic lifestyle to a settled one. They learned how to grow crops, such as maize, beans, and squash, which provided them with a stable food source. This enabled them to establish permanent settlements and stay in one place for longer periods of time.
The best answer is option a. Native Americans began to cultivate plants for food.
To arrive at this answer, we can analyze the options and consider the factors that contribute to the establishment of permanent settlements.
Option b. Native Americans began to create more complex tools and pottery: While the development of tools and pottery can enhance the quality of life and productivity, it does not directly explain the ability to make permanent settlements. It is more associated with the advancement of technology.
Option c. Native Americans discovered alternate food sources, such as shellfish: While alternate food sources contribute to a diversified diet, they do not necessarily facilitate the establishment of permanent settlements. This factor is more relevant for nomadic or semi-nomadic societies.
Option d. Native Americans wanted to band together in large groups for protection: While protection was indeed a motive for communities to come together, it does not explain how they were able to create permanent settlements. Protection and settlement are related but distinct concepts.
Option a. Native Americans began to cultivate plants for food: This option directly addresses the establishment of permanent settlements. Cultivating plants for food implies the development of agriculture and the ability to produce a stable food supply. This agricultural practice enabled Native Americans to settle in one place permanently, as they no longer needed to constantly hunt or gather food. Therefore, option a is the most fitting answer.