What was one major impact of the Spanish on Native Americans?

The introduction of European diseases had a devastating impact on Native American populations following the arrival of the Spanish in the Americas. This was primarily because Native Americans had no prior exposure to these diseases, such as smallpox, measles, and influenza, which meant they lacked any immunity to them. As a result, these diseases spread rapidly and led to significant population declines among indigenous communities.

The consequences of such widespread illness altered social structures, disrupted traditional ways of life, and weakened tribal cohesion, making it challenging for Native Americans to resist European colonization and its associated impacts. Understanding this aspect highlights the tragic and far-reaching effects of European contact that reshaped the demographic landscape of the Americas.