"The Etowah Indian Mounds Historic Site consists of six mounds, three of which are clearly visible: the Great Temple Mound, Lesser Temple Mound, and Mortuary Mound. The Great Temple Mound towered over the community and served as a platform for the home of the priest-chief. Situated between the Great Temple Mound and the Etowah River, the Lesser Temple Mound was originally shaped as a square. Generations of farming softened the edges of the mound, leaving its current, rounded form. The Mortuary Mound is the only mound to have been fully excavated and replaced by a reconstruction. The burial sites and associated artifacts that were discovered within are protected by the Native American Graves and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA) and their welfare governed by the modern-day Muscogee (Creek) people."

Question

"The Etowah Indian Mounds Historic Site consists of six mounds, three of which are clearly visible: the Great Temple Mound, Lesser Temple Mound, and Mortuary Mound. The Great Temple Mound towered over the community and served as a platform for the home of the priest-chief. Situated between the Great Temple Mound and the Etowah River, the Lesser Temple Mound was originally shaped as a square. Generations of farming softened the edges of the mound, leaving its current, rounded form. The Mortuary Mound is the only mound to have been fully excavated and replaced by a reconstruction. The burial sites and associated artifacts that were discovered within are protected by the Native American Graves and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA) and their welfare governed by the modern-day Muscogee (Creek) people."

“Etowah Mounds Virtual Field Trip.” GPB
Which factor best explains why Native Americans were able to make permanent settlements that included features like the Etowah Mounds?
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 band together in large groups for protection

Answer 1

A. Native Americans began to cultivate plants for food

The cultivation of plants for food allowed Native American societies to become more sedentary and establish permanent settlements. This agricultural practice provided a stable food source that could support larger populations and allowed for the development of more complex social structures, including the construction of ritual and ceremonial sites like the Etowah Mounds.