How did the explorer, la salle, contribute to the development of louisiana? he led a military expedition against the spanish settlements in the region. he explored the mississippi river to its mouth and claimed the territory for france. he mapped the mid-section of the mississippi river, encouraging later expeditions to discover its mouth. he established the city of new orleans to create a permanent french presence.

answer:

the answer is that he mapped the mid-section of the mississippi river to its mouth and claimed the territory for france.

explanation:

la salle   secured a contract   for the colonization of lower louisiana from louis xiv   in 1638.   the plan was to reach the mississippi by sea and secure a permanent settlement upriver that would provide the french with an advantage over spanish interests throughout the gulf of mexico.