Final Answer:
They heard about his reports of the ""Seven Cities of Gold"" option c.
Step-by-step explanation:
Fray Marcos de Niza's journey was widely known among Spaniards due to his reports of the ""Seven Cities of Gold."" This narrative captured the imagination of the Spanish populace and fueled the fervor of exploration in the 16th century. The myth of the Seven Cities of Gold originated from indigenous stories and was later amplified by Marcos de Niza's accounts, which described these fabled cities as opulent and prosperous. The allure of unimaginable wealth spurred subsequent expeditions, such as those led by Francisco Vázquez de Coronado, who sought to find and claim these legendary riches for the Spanish crown.
Fray Marcos de Niza's narrative, however, was met with skepticism and controversy. Subsequent investigations revealed discrepancies and exaggerations in his reports, casting doubt on the existence of the Seven Cities of Gold as described. Despite the lack of tangible evidence, the myth persisted and became deeply ingrained in the Spanish colonial psyche, influencing further explorations and conquests in the New World.
The impact of Fray Marcos de Niza's journey extends beyond the initial quest for gold. It highlights the complex interplay between exploration, myth-making, and the cultural dynamics of the time. The allure of untold riches, coupled with the zeal for spreading Christianity and expanding Spanish influence, shaped the course of history in the Americas. The legend of the Seven Cities of Gold, while not realized in the literal sense, played a pivotal role in shaping the Spanish exploration of the New World during the Age of Discovery option c.