Final answer:
Humans cleared down almost all of Minnesota's native prairie primarily for agricultural expansion, driven by the need to cultivate fertile land for farming and settlement.
Step-by-step explanation:
The widespread clearing of Minnesota's native prairie by humans can be attributed to the expansion of agriculture during the 19th and early 20th centuries. As settlers moved into the region, they sought to convert the vast prairies into arable land for farming. The native prairie soils were rich and fertile, making them ideal for agriculture. The establishment of farms and the cultivation of crops required clearing the land of its natural vegetation, leading to the extensive removal of the native prairie.
The desire for agricultural development, fueled by the promise of fertile soils and the economic potential of farming, prompted settlers to clear large areas of Minnesota's prairie landscape. This process involved the removal of grasses, flowers, and other native plants to make way for crops such as wheat and corn. The transformation of the prairie into farmland contributed to the growth of agricultural communities in the region but came at the expense of the native ecosystem.
In summary, the clearing of Minnesota's native prairie by humans was a consequence of the agricultural expansion driven by settlers seeking to establish farms and cultivate the fertile land. This historical land-use change significantly altered the landscape and ecosystems, marking a critical chapter in the state's agricultural and environmental history.