European Explorers of Texas Review

Why is Pineda's expedition considered significant in the history of Texas?

• It led to the discovery of gold in Texas

• It resulted in the establishment of a major colony

• It introduced new crops to the region

• It was the first documented European exploration of the Texas coast

Answer explanation

Pineda's expedition is significant because it marked the first documented European exploration of the Texas coast, providing valuable information about the region and paving the way for future exploration and settlement.

What is one reason historians might consider Coronado's expedition a success?

• He found a new sea route.

• He brought back riches to Spain.

• He claimed a large area of land for Spain.

• He established a new language.

Answer explanation

Historians consider Coronado's expedition a success because he claimed a large area of land for Spain, expanding Spanish territory in the Americas, even though he did not find the riches he sought.

Why did the Spanish increase their exploration and settlement activities in eastern Texas after LaSalle’s expedition?

• They wanted to establish trade with Native Americans.

• They were influenced by French success in the region.

• They feared French takeover of what they considered part of New Spain.

• They found valuable natural resources in eastern Texas.

Answer explanation

The Spanish increased their exploration in eastern Texas due to fears of a French takeover, as LaSalle's expedition demonstrated French interest in the region, which the Spanish viewed as part of their territory in New Spain.

What was the effect of missions providing a dependable food supply to Native Americans?

• It allowed for permanent settlement

• It led to conflicts over resources

• It caused tribes to abandon agriculture

• It reduced the need for hunting

Answer explanation

The missions provided a reliable food supply, which enabled Native Americans to establish permanent settlements. This stability allowed them to focus on community development rather than constant movement in search of food.

How did Spain assert its claim to Texas in 1519?

• It built a series of missions.

• It purchased the Texas territory from Mexico.

• It engaged in a war with the Native Americans.

• It founded its first settlement on the mainland.

Answer explanation

In 1519, Spain asserted its claim to Texas by founding its first settlement on the mainland, establishing a foothold in the region. This action marked the beginning of Spanish colonization efforts in Texas.

What year did Alonso Alvarez de Pineda conduct his expedition?

• 1492

• 1519

• 1534

• 1607

Answer explanation

Alonso Alvarez de Pineda conducted his expedition in 1519, where he is known for mapping the Gulf Coast of North America. The other years listed do not correspond to his expedition.

Which statement best describes the success of Fort St. Louis?

• It thrived as a permanent settlement.

• It became the center of French trade in Texas.

• It was a temporary settlement that failed to last.

• It was captured by the Spanish soon after it was established.

Answer explanation

Fort St. Louis was established as a temporary settlement and ultimately failed to endure, making the statement 'It was a temporary settlement that failed to last' the most accurate description of its success.

...[we escaped] To this island we gave the name of the Island of III-Fate [perhaps Galveston Island]. The people on it are tall and well formed; they have no other weapons than bows and arrows ... Among these [people] I improved my condition by becoming a trader ... and they gave me food and treated me well ... This trade suited me well because it gave me liberty to go wherever I pleased; I was not bound to do anything and no longer a slave ...

• - Excerpt from the Journal of Alvar Nunez Cabeza de Vaca, written in 1542

Based on this passage from Cabeza de Vaca’s journal, which of the following is NOT a valid conclusion?

• Cabeza de Vaca left the Island of Ill-Fate to travel as a trader in Texas.

• Cabeza de Vaca’s relationship with Native Americans did not help him survive.

• Although once enslaved, Cabeza de Vaca later gained a great deal of freedom.

• Cabeza de Vaca learned to live like the Native Americans and wrote about it later in his life.

Answer explanation

Cabeza de Vaca's account shows that his relationship with Native Americans was crucial for his survival, as they provided him food and treated him well. Thus, the conclusion that it did not help him survive is invalid.

What was one of the main reasons some Native Americans agreed to live on missions?

• To learn new farming techniques

• To trade with Europeans

• For protection from enemies

• To find new hunting grounds

Answer explanation

Many Native Americans agreed to live on missions primarily for protection from enemies. The missions offered a safe haven against rival tribes and European settlers, which was a significant concern during that time.

What was a consequence of the cultural changes imposed by the missions?

• Loss of traditional cultures and ways of life

• Increased trade with European settlers

• Improved relations with neighboring tribes

• Greater economic independence

Answer explanation

The cultural changes imposed by the missions led to the loss of traditional cultures and ways of life, as indigenous peoples were often forced to abandon their customs and adopt new practices introduced by the missionaries.