Spanish Main

The Spanish Main refers to the coastal regions of the Spanish Empire in the Americas during the 16th to 18th centuries, particularly parts of the Caribbean and the northern coasts of South America. It was a major area for Spanish colonization and trade, where treasure fleets transported gold, silver, and other riches back to Spain. This maritime zone became notorious for pirate activity, as many sought to intercept these valuable shipments. The term encapsulates the wealth, exploration, and conflicts of the era, representing both the power and vulnerability of the Spanish Empire in the New World.