Final answer:
Christian missionaries played a prominent role in different historical contexts, spreading Christianity and providing various forms of assistance to indigenous populations. Their efforts had a lasting impact on the history of Christianity and colonization.
Step-by-step explanation:
Christian missionaries played a significant role in various historical periods. They were responsible for spreading Christianity, teaching languages, and providing education and healthcare to indigenous populations. For example, missionaries in Africa purchased the freedom of local 'slave children' and sought to convert the local peoples to Christianity through child-sponsorship programs. In different parts of the world, missionaries encountered resistance and faced challenges, but their efforts left a lasting impact on the history of Christianity and colonization.