Final answer:
Spanish settlements in North America centered on missions, which served as religious, educational, and cultural hubs during the colonial period.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Spanish settlements in North America centered on the feature of missions. During the colonial period, the Spanish followed a pattern of establishing urban centers with a central plaza surrounded by significant buildings, including a Roman Catholic church. Missions played a critical role in the efforts to convert the indigenous population to Christianity, acting as the focal points for religious and cultural integration. Spanish missions were not only religious centers but also served in educating and converting Native Americans, reflecting the strong influence of Roman Catholicism as Spain's legacy in the New World.