Question

in 1492, christopher columbus landed on the shores of what came to be called the new world. other explorers and settlers soon followed columbus from europe, many seeking gold and riches. these colonists brought many things with them from europe, introducing new plants and animals to north america. they also brought several european maladies. the natives of north america had never before been exposed to these strange new diseases. as a result, many became very ill and died. we dont know the full effect that the europeans had on the native populations. however, many historians believe that up to ninety - five percent of native populations died as a result. what is the meaning of maladies as used in the passage? guns fruits and vegetables machines sicknesses

Explanation:

The passage discusses the impact of European explorers and settlers on the Native American population. It mentions that Europeans brought new plants, animals, and also several European maladies. The key point here is that "maladies" refers to "sicknesses" as the text talks about the native population getting ill and dying due to exposure to these new diseases.

Answer:

sicknesses