Which factor best explains why Native Americans were able to make permanent settlements? (1 point)
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
To determine which factor best explains why Native Americans were able to make permanent settlements, let's examine each option and evaluate their significance.
A. Native Americans began to cultivate plants for food: This option suggests that the practice of farming and growing crops played a role in Native Americans establishing permanent settlements. Cultivating plants for food provided a stable food source, making it easier for them to settle in one place instead of constantly moving to find food.
B. Native Americans began to create more complex tools and pottery: The development of tools and pottery can indicate a higher level of sophistication and technological advancement. This factor may have contributed to making settled life more convenient and sustainable, but it may not be the primary reason for the establishment of permanent settlements.
C. Native Americans discovered alternate food sources, such as shellfish: The discovery of alternative food sources, like shellfish, could have increased the availability of food options and contributed to the decision to settle in a particular area. However, this factor alone may not fully explain the establishment of permanent settlements.
D. Native Americans wanted to band together in large groups for protection: This option suggests that the need for protection and security prompted Native Americans to form permanent settlements. By living in larger groups, communities could defend themselves more effectively against external threats. This factor emphasizes the importance of safety and collective security as a motive for establishing permanent settlements.
Given these explanations, the factor that best explains why Native Americans were able to make permanent settlements is option D: Native Americans wanted to band together in large groups for protection. While the other factors may have contributed, the need for security, protection, and defense likely played a significant role in the establishment of permanent settlements.