Read the excerpt from an 1893 book describing the settlement of Australia and New Zealand.
“It is not necessary here to follow the complicated history of New Zealand in later years, which unfortunately comprises [includes] several bloody wars with the Maoris. The present prosperous condition of this great colony is well known, but it has not been effected without the rapid diminution [decrease in number] of the natives, who have met with the fate of most aborigines in contact with Europeans, especially when the former were naturally bold and warlike.”
—Notes on Captain Cook’s Journal
Which statement is best supported by the excerpt?
A.
The British attempt to wipe out the Maori was successful.
B.
The Maori suffered a loss of population and decline in power.
C.
The British had little trouble conquering and colonizing New Zealand.
D.
The Maori population gradually declined after Britain colonized New Zealand