Question

"The environmental exploitation of North America by European explorers likely resulted in:

A. Soil depletion and deforestation
B. Surplus grain supplies due to overplanting
C. Extinction of some animal species through hunting
D. Declines in ocean resources due to overharvesting"

Answer 1

European exploitation of North America caused ecological damage such as soil depletion, deforestation, extinction of many species, and spread of disease. The fur trade and other activities led to overexploitation and disrupted ecosystems. Notably, the North American Bison was nearly driven to extinction. So the correct option is A.

Step-by-step explanation:

The environmental exploitation of North America by European explorers resulted in significant ecological damage. Such impacts include soil depletion and deforestation, extinction of some animal species due to overhunting, declines in ocean resources due to overharvesting, and the introduction of diseases to which the native inhabitants had no immunity. The introduction of European agricultural practices led to the spread of invasive species and disruption of local ecosystems. Additionally, the pursuit of economic gain through fur trade and other resources led to overexploitation and significant changes to the environment. In the case of the North American Bison, their numbers were decimated from tens of millions to near extinction by the end of the 19th century.