Final answer:
Precluded means prevented, and in historical contexts, it is used to describe actions that have been stopped or made impossible, such as trading or receiving grants.
The Correct option is; b) Prevented.
Step-by-step explanation:
The meaning of "precluded" is b) Prevented. When something is precluded, it means that an action or occurrence is made impossible or is stopped from happening.
An example in a historical context would be how the Portuguese were precluded from trading in Africa, indicating they were prevented from engaging in trade within the continent.
Another instance is when Spanish conquistadors were no longer allowed to be granted encomiendas, meaning they were prevented from receiving these grants of authority over indigenous people.
Precluded means prevented, and in historical contexts, it is used to describe actions that have been stopped or made impossible, such as trading or receiving grants.
"Precluded" means prevented or made impossible. If something is precluded, it is ruled out or excluded, making it unable to happen or be considered.