Which of the following is one way the Spanish impacted the Native Americans living in the southeastern region of North America? (1 point)

A. Thousands of Native Americans abandoned their traditional beliefs and converted to Catholicism.

B. They formed a strong alliance and became trading partners.

C. The Native Americans were introduced to new foods.

D. Thousands of Native Americans died as a result of diseases spread by contact with Europeans.

D. Thousands of Native Americans died as a result of diseases spread by contact with Europeans.

D. Thousands of Native Americans died as a result of diseases spread by contact with Europeans.

To determine the correct answer, we need to analyze each option and consider historical facts regarding the Spanish impact on Native Americans in the southeastern region of North America.

A. Thousands of Native Americans abandoned their traditional beliefs and converted to Catholicism: This statement is true. The Spanish brought Catholic missionaries to the region, and many Native Americans did convert to Catholicism, abandoning their traditional religious beliefs.

B. They formed a strong alliance and became trading partners: This statement is not accurate regarding the Spanish impact on the Native Americans in the southeastern region of North America. While trading did occur between the Spanish and Native Americans, it was often exploitative, and alliances were not strong or mutually beneficial.

C. The Native Americans were introduced to new foods: This statement is true. The Spanish introduced crops such as wheat, barley, sugarcane, and livestock to the Native Americans, which significantly impacted their diet.

D. Thousands of Native Americans died as a result of diseases spread by contact with Europeans: This statement is also true. Native Americans had no prior exposure to diseases brought over by the Europeans, and their lack of immunity led to devastating epidemics. Historically, it is estimated that diseases such as smallpox, measles, and influenza caused significant mortality among Native Americans.

Based on these facts, the correct answer is D. Thousands of Native Americans died as a result of diseases spread by contact with Europeans, as well as A. Thousands of Native Americans abandoned their traditional beliefs and converted to Catholicism.