Conquest of the Americas

The conquest of the Americas was a period from the late 15th to early 17th centuries when European explorers and settlers, notably the Spanish and Portuguese, dramatically expanded into the continents. Fueled by reasons such as wealth, territorial claims, and religious motives, they encountered diverse indigenous civilizations with advanced cultures. Through military force, alliances, and disease, Europeans significantly diminished native populations and claimed lands, establishing colonies. This conquest reshaped history, leading to cultural exchanges, as well as exploitation and upheaval for indigenous peoples.