Spanish

Definition

The Spanish refers to people from Spain who embarked on voyages of exploration and conquest during the Age of Exploration. In particular, it refers to those who arrived in Mesoamerica during the 16th century and ultimately led to the downfall of empires like the Aztecs.

Analogy

Think of the Spanish as knights wearing shiny armor riding powerful horses into battle against ancient civilizations like superheroes fighting villains. Their advanced weaponry gave them an advantage over other civilizations they encountered.

Related terms

Conquistadors: Spanish conquerors who played a significant role in subjugating indigenous peoples during colonization.

Cortes: Hernan Cortes was one such conquistador who led the expedition that ultimately defeated the Aztec Empire.

Colonization: The process by which a foreign power establishes control over a territory and its people, often accompanied by cultural assimilation and exploitation.