Final answer:
Missions in California were often built near water sources as water was essential for irrigation and farming, sustaining the mission communities, and attracting Indigenous people. By building near water, the missionaries ensured a reliable supply for agriculture and daily activities.
Step-by-step explanation:
Missions Built Near What Natural Resource and Why
Missions in California were often built near water sources. One of the key natural resources that missions were built near was water. This was because water was essential for irrigation and farming, which were crucial for sustaining the mission communities and providing food for both the missionaries and the Indigenous people they were converting. Additionally, water was also important for cooking, cleaning, and other daily activities.
By building missions near water, the missionaries ensured a reliable and accessible water supply for the community. They could use the water for agriculture, constructing irrigation systems to water their crops. This allowed them to cultivate their own food and reduce reliance on external sources. The presence of water also attracted Indigenous communities who relied on these water sources for their own livelihoods, facilitating interaction and conversion.