Explorers for Spain

This set of flashcards covers key concepts and figures from the Age of Exploration, focusing on Spanish explorers, their motivations, voyages, and the impact of their actions on Native Americans.

What was the main goal of Christopher Columbus's voyages in 1492?

To find a new route to Asia by sailing west across the Atlantic Ocean.

Who were the patrons that financed Columbus's voyage?

King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella of Spain.

What is a conquistador?

A Spanish conqueror of the Americas.

What was the significance of Columbus's landing on October 12, 1492?

He reached an island in the Caribbean Sea, marking the discovery of the Americas by Europeans.

What did Columbus call the indigenous people he encountered?

Indians, believing he had reached India.

What was the first town established by Europeans in North America?

La Isabela, founded by Columbus in present-day Dominican Republic.

What was Hernán Cortés's objective during his expedition in 1519?

To conquer the Aztec Empire and claim its riches for Spain.

What happened to Tenochtitlán in 1521?

Cortés and his allies captured and destroyed the city.

What was the outcome of Magellan’s journey?

His expedition was the first to circumnavigate the globe, although he was killed in the Philippines.

What devastating effect did European explorers have on Native Americans?

Epidemics caused by diseases like smallpox led to a significant decline in the Native American population.

What was the purpose of the Spanish missionaries in the Americas?

To convert Native Americans to Christianity and teach them about European culture.

Describe the colony established by Spain in North America in 1535.

New Spain, which included present-day Mexico and other regions.

What was one consequence of the Spanish control over economic activities in their colonies?

Colonists were forbidden from trading with other European nations or Spanish colonies.

What was the result of the Reconquista for Spain?

The restoration of Christianity in Spain after pushing Muslims out.

What was the attitude of the indigenous Taínos towards Columbus at first?

They were welcoming and gave gifts, mistaking him for a god.