Conquistadors

Conquistadors were Spanish explorers and soldiers in the 15th to 17th centuries who played a key role in the Spanish colonization of the Americas. They sought wealth, land, and glory by conquering indigenous civilizations, often using military force. Notable figures include Hernán Cortés, who conquered the Aztecs, and Francisco Pizarro, who defeated the Incas. Their journeys significantly expanded European knowledge of the New World but also led to the exploitation and dramatic decline of native populations through warfare and disease. The legacy of the Conquistadors is complex, intertwining discovery, conquest, and cultural exchange.