Spreading Christianity: Religion and Exploration — Reading Comprehension

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Grades

Standards

D2.HIS.2.3-5
D2.HIS.3.3-5
D2.HIS.14.3-5
RI.4.3
RI.4.4
W.4.2

About This Reader

This engaging U.S. history reading passage explores the spread of Christianity during the Age of Exploration, focusing on the interactions between European explorers, missionaries, and Native Americans. Students will learn how religion influenced exploration and settlement in North America, including the role of Spanish missions and the effects on Native American communities. The passage uses a clear, chronological narrative and highlights themes of bravery and problem-solving, making it accessible for upper elementary readers. Included are a glossary of key vocabulary words, a Spanish translation, an interactive timeline, and multiple comprehension activities aligned with C3 Framework standards. Students can also use graphic organizers to compare perspectives and sequence events. This history reading passage includes a read aloud audio and Spanish translation to support diverse learners. Ideal for building background knowledge in U.S. history while practicing reading skills.

CONTENT PREVIEW

Mission San Juan Capistrano, Olive Street, between U.S. Highway 101 & Main Street, San Juan Capistrano, Orange County, CA.
Source: Library of Congress - Historic American Buildings Survey

Many European explorers came to North America in the 1500s and 1600s. They wanted to find new land, gold, and new trade routes. Another big reason for their journeys was to spread Christianity, their religion, to new people.

Spanish explorers traveled across the ocean and reached places that are now Florida, Texas, and California. Along with explorers came missionaries. These men and women worked to teach Native Americans about Christianity. They built missions, which were special church communities. Missions had churches, farms, and schools. The missionaries taught Native Americans how to read the Bible, grow crops, and use European tools.

At first, some Native Americans were curious about the new religion and ways. Others did not want to change their old beliefs. Some Native Americans and missionaries became friends and helped each other. But there were also problems. Sometimes, missionaries tried to force people to accept new ways. This caused sadness and conflict. Many Native Americans lost their old traditions and homes. Some became sick with new diseases brought from Europe.

One famous missionary was Father Junípero Serra. He helped start many missions in California. He wrote, "Always go forward, never turn back." His missions changed the land and lives of Native Americans. Over time, some Native Americans learned new skills and became Christians. Others tried to keep their old ways alive.

The spread of Christianity was a big part of the Age of Exploration. It changed the culture and life of Native Americans forever. Some Native Americans found new chances to learn. Others lost their land and traditions. These events still shape our country today.

Interesting Fact: The oldest church in the United States is the San Miguel Mission in Santa Fe, New Mexico. It was built around 1610!

Who wanted to spread Christianity?

European explorersNative AmericansFarmersTraders

What did missionaries build?

MissionsShipsMarketsForts

Who was Father Junípero Serra?

A missionaryA farmerA soldierA trader

Why did European explorers come to America?

Find new land and spread religionHide from warBuy new clothesGrow oranges

How did missions change Native Americans?

New skills and lost traditionsBecame soldiersTraveled to EuropeBuilt ships

What was one problem with missions?