Spanish Conquest

Definition

The military campaigns led by Spain during the Age of Exploration that resulted in the subjugation and domination of indigenous civilizations in the Americas. These conquests led to significant changes in politics, economics, demographics, religion, language, and culture.

Related terms

Encomienda System: A system in which Spanish colonizers were granted land and indigenous laborers by the crown. In return, they were responsible for converting natives to Christianity.

Columbian Exchange: The widespread transfer of plants, animals, diseases, culture, and ideas between the Americas and Afro-Eurasia following Christopher Columbus' voyages.

Mestizo: A term used to describe individuals of mixed European and indigenous American ancestry resulting from Spanish conquest.