The Mississippians are said to have practiced horticulture, which means they
A were hostile to non-Mississippians.
B cultivated gardens to grow food.
C were a culture of Native Americans.
D relied on hunting and gathering.
E relied on rivers for food.
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is B. Cultivated gardens to grow food.
Horticulture is the practice of cultivating plants, especially for food production. The Mississippians, an ancient Native American culture that thrived between 800 CE and 1600 CE, are known for their advanced agricultural techniques. They primarily relied on horticulture to sustain their communities, growing a variety of crops such as maize (corn), beans, squash, and other native plants. These crops formed the backbone of their diet, which was supplemented by hunting, fishing, and gathering.
The Mississippians developed intricate agricultural systems that included raised fields, irrigation techniques, and crop rotation to enhance soil fertility. Their ability to cultivate large, productive gardens allowed them to support large, complex societies with permanent settlements. The use of horticulture enabled the Mississippians to establish thriving villages and urban centers, the most famous being Cahokia, which was located near present-day St. Louis, Missouri.
Although the Mississippians also engaged in hunting and gathering, horticulture played a crucial role in their economy. It allowed for the creation of surplus food, which could be stored for winter months or traded with neighboring tribes. This practice contributed to the Mississippians’ social and political organization, as it supported both population growth and the development of a class structure with leaders and specialists in agriculture and other crafts.
In summary, the Mississippians are best known for their use of horticulture, which allowed them to thrive and develop a complex culture centered around agriculture.