Which of the following is a true statement about spanish exploration in the americas?
a. columbus was fully aware that he had encountered two continents previously unknown to europeans.
b. amerigo vespucci was the first european to contend that columbus had encountered two continents previously unknown to europeans.
c. conquistadors were mainly interested in studying the americas and befriending the native peoples.
d. native illnesses wiped out over three-fourths of the conquistadors who came to the americas.

the alfred thayer mahan award for literary achievement is awarded each year by the navy league of the united states. the award is named for an american naval historian and theorist, rear admiral alfred thayer mahan, united states navy who, through his writing, provided stimulus and guidance to those who share in the defense of the nation. presented since 1957, "this award for literary achievement is awarded to a u.s. navy officer, u.s. marine corps officer, enlisted service member, or civilian who has made a notable literary contribution that has advanced the knowledge of the importance of sea power in the united states."[1]

the anwser is missions