The Conquistadors

The Conquistadors were Spanish explorers and warriors in the 16th century who ventured into the Americas following Christopher Columbus's voyages. Their primary goal was to conquer vast territories for Spain, seeking wealth, land, and the spread of Christianity. Notable figures such as Hernán Cortés, who defeated the Aztec Empire, and Francisco Pizarro, who conquered the Inca Empire, exemplify their impact. While they achieved significant territorial expansion for Spain, their conquests also led to the suffering and decline of indigenous populations due to violence, disease, and exploitation. The Conquistadors played a crucial role in shaping the history of the New World.