What was the primary goal of Hernando de Soto as he explored the American southeast? A. To find gold B. To conquer land C. To convert Native Americans D. To develop trade partnerships
D. To develop trade partnerships
The primary goal of Hernando de Soto as he explored the American southeast was A. To find gold.
To determine the primary goal of Hernando de Soto as he explored the American southeast, we can look at historical records and research on his expedition. Hernando de Soto was a Spanish conquistador who led an expedition in the 16th century to explore and conquer new territories.
One of the key motivations for Spanish explorers during this time was to find gold and other valuable resources. So, option A (To find gold) could be a potential goal for Hernando de Soto.
Another common goal for explorers of that era was to conquer new lands and expand their empire. This is evident in the Spanish conquest of the New World, including regions like the American southeast. So, option B (To conquer land) is another plausible goal for de Soto.
The conversion of Native Americans to Christianity was also one of the objectives of Spanish explorers during this period. However, it is important to note that while de Soto encountered Native Americans and some attempts at conversion were made, it was not a primary goal of his expedition. Therefore, option C (To convert Native Americans) is less likely to be the primary goal.
Lastly, developing trade partnerships is not typically considered a primary goal for explorers in the same way that finding resources or conquering land were. Although trade played a role in interactions with Native Americans, the primary goal of de Soto's exploration was likely more focused on wealth acquisition and territorial expansion rather than trade partnerships. Therefore, option D (To develop trade partnerships) is less likely to be the primary goal.
In conclusion, based on historical evidence, the primary goal of Hernando de Soto as he explored the American southeast was most likely A. To find gold and B. To conquer land.