The history of Spain's missions in the American South and Southwest reveals much about Spain's strategy. A True Book: American History series allows readers to experience the earliest moments in American history and to discover how these moments helped shape the country that it is today. This series includes an age appropriate (grades 3-5) introduction to curriculum-relevant subjects and a robust resource section that encourages independent study.The contributions and failures in these regions, which the Spanish came to view as a defensive barrier for the northern frontier of their empire and as a place where pagan souls might be saved.