When European settlers first came to North America, the American Indians viewed them ______. The population of the American Indians began to decline drastically soon after the arrival of European settlers. The most significant cause for this decline was _________ .

1. As a threat to their way of life
2. As trading partners
3. As gods and magicians

A. The settlers use of superiority weaponry
B. Increased wars with settlers over land claims
C. The spread of contagious diseases from the settlers