Spanish Conquistadors

Spanish Conquistadors were explorers and soldiers from Spain in the 16th century who traveled to the Americas to claim land and resources. They played a key role in the European colonization, often resulting in the conquest of powerful indigenous civilizations like the Aztecs and Incas. Motivated by the desire for wealth, land, and fame, they used military force, alliances, and sometimes deception. Their actions dramatically reshaped the history, culture, and populations of the New World, leading to widespread cultural exchange but also significant suffering and loss for indigenous peoples.