Analyze the maps to identify the connection between the growth of the Spanish Empire and the spread of Catholicism (1 point ) After Spain merged the kingdoms of Aragon and Navarre , it was able to use Navarre as a launching point to spread Christianity to the Americas After Spain merged the kingdoms of Aragon and Castile , it acquired Granada and was able to use it as a launching point to spread Christianity to the Americas After Spain merged the kingdoms of Granada and Portugal , was able to use Portugal as a launching point to spread Christianity to the Americas Spain merged the kingdoms Castile and Portugal , was able to use Castile as a launching point to spread Christianity to North America

The connection between the growth of the Spanish Empire and the spread of Catholicism can be identified through the analysis of the maps. The correct statement is that "After Spain merged the kingdoms of Aragon and Castile, it acquired Granada and was able to use it as a launching point to spread Christianity to the Americas."

The merging of the kingdoms of Aragon and Castile allowed for a consolidation of power in Spain, which was instrumental in establishing and expanding the Spanish Empire. The acquisition of Granada further extended Spanish control and provided a strategic base for launching expeditions to the Americas.

This connection between territorial expansion and the spread of Catholicism is significant because the Spanish Empire saw the colonization of vast territories in the Americas, resulting in the conversion of indigenous populations to Catholicism. The Spanish colonial authorities, under the influence of the Catholic Church, actively promoted the conversion of Native Americans to Christianity, viewing it as an essential part of their colonial mission.

Therefore, the merging of Aragon and Castile, followed by the acquisition of Granada, provided the necessary political and geographic circumstances for Spain to undertake the colonization and Christianization of the Americas.