What was one effect of the European arrival on Aboriginal lifestyle?

The arrival of Europeans had a significant and profound impact on the Aboriginal lifestyle, particularly highlighted by the loss of traditional lands. When European settlers arrived, they claimed vast areas of land for agriculture, mining, and urban development without regard for the existing Aboriginal land rights and cultural connections to those lands. This displacement not only disrupted the traditional lifestyles and spiritual practices of Aboriginal peoples, but also led to a breakdown of their social structures, hunting, and gathering practices that relied on their connection to the land.

The other options do not accurately reflect the consequences of European contact. Improved living standards did not occur for Aboriginal people; rather, many faced poverty and health crises due to displacement and new diseases. Increased population is misleading as European settlers did not contribute to an increase in the Aboriginal population; in fact, many Aboriginal communities faced significant declines due to the impacts of colonization. Cultural independence was also diminished as European influences led to the erosion of traditional practices, languages, and identities among Aboriginal peoples. Therefore, the loss of traditional lands stands out as the key effect resulting from European arrival.