Spanish Colonization of the Americas

Spanish colonization of the Americas began in the late 15th century following Christopher Columbus's voyages. Spain sought wealth, land, and the spread of Christianity, leading to the establishment of vast territories in Central and South America. Colonization involved conquering indigenous populations, exploiting resources, and establishing settlements. Notable figures like Hernán Cortés and Francisco Pizarro played key roles in these conquests. The Spanish introduced new crops and livestock but also imposed harsh systems like encomienda, leading to significant demographic and cultural changes. This period laid the groundwork for the complex history of Latin America, with lasting impacts on its societies.