Questions: Question 45 2 Points The single most important element in the success of the European conquest of the Americas was the (A) None of these answers are correct. B technological disparity between native Americans and Europeans. C fact that native Americans lacked horses. (D) disease that decimated native populations.

The answer is (D): disease that decimated native populations.

Explanation for each option:

(A) None of these answers are correct.

• This option is incorrect because one of the provided answers is indeed correct.

(B) Technological disparity between native Americans and Europeans.

• While technological disparity, such as the use of firearms and steel weapons by Europeans, played a significant role in their conquest, it was not the single most important element. The impact of diseases was far more devastating and had a more profound effect on the native populations.

(C) Fact that native Americans lacked horses.

• This is incorrect because, although the introduction of horses by Europeans did change the dynamics of some native societies, it was not the most critical factor in the conquest. Many native societies were able to adapt to the use of horses over time.

(D) Disease that decimated native populations.

• This is the correct answer. The introduction of diseases such as smallpox, influenza, and measles by Europeans had a catastrophic impact on native populations, who had no immunity to these diseases. The resulting epidemics decimated large portions of the native population, significantly weakening their societies and making it easier for Europeans to conquer and colonize the Americas.