Final answer:
Scholars used underwater archaeology, cataloging, and photography to study the La Belle wreckage and gain insight into cultural connections and trade routes.
Step-by-step explanation:
When studying the La Belle wreckage, scholars used various methods to carefully excavate and analyze the remains. They employed techniques such as underwater archaeology, which involved sending divers to explore the sunken ship and recover artifacts. Additionally, scientists cataloged the finds and recorded them through photography. These methods allowed scholars to gain insight into the cultural connections and trade routes during the time period of the La Belle shipwreck.