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 alternative food sources, such as shellfish
D. Native Americans wanted to band together in large groups for protection
a is the best choice.
The factor that BEST explains why Native Americans were able to make permanent settlements is 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.
To arrive at this answer, let's analyze each option:
A. Native Americans began to cultivate plants for food: This option suggests that Native Americans started growing their food instead of solely relying on hunting and gathering. The ability to cultivate plants, such as corn, beans, and squash, provided a stable food source that allowed them to settle in one place.
B. Native Americans began to create more complex tools and pottery: Although creating more complex tools and pottery might have contributed to their ability to settle in one place, it does not directly address the sustainability of their settlements. This option focuses more on technological advancement rather than settling permanently.
C. Native Americans discovered alternative food sources, such as shellfish: The discovery of alternative food sources like shellfish might have been beneficial, but it does not necessarily explain why they were able to make permanent settlements. Alternative food sources could sustain them in temporary locations as well.
D. Native Americans wanted to band together in large groups for protection: While protection and safety might have been factors influencing settlement patterns, it does not directly explain why Native Americans were able to make permanent settlements. Safety concerns could apply to both temporary and permanent settlements.
Upon examining the options, option A stands out as the most compelling explanation. Cultivating plants for food provided a reliable and sustainable food source, which allowed Native Americans to establish permanent settlements and build communities.