Which statement BEST explains the significance of the Mississippi River to the first European settlers in Colonial America? A) The Mississippi River was claimed by Native Americans, so it was the only territory not invaded by Europeans.
B) France, Spain, and Britain all wanted to occupy the surrounding land and control access for trade and supplies.
C) It was the boundary that divided all Native American villages from the French, Spanish, and British settlements.
D) After unsuccessful attempts at farming and hunting, the Mississippi River became the colonists' only food source.