Spanish Empire

What was an important similarity between the Eurasian world and the Americas in 1500?

Both had similar populations, indicating that the Americas were not as underdeveloped as Europeans believed.

What were key agricultural differences between Eurasia and the Americas in 1500?

In the Americas, crops like corn, potatoes, and cassava were grown, while in Europe, domestication of animals was prioritized.

How many hieroglyphics were in the Mayan writing system?

The Mayan writing system had 800 hieroglyphics representing different syllables.

What was a significant mathematical concept developed by the Maya?

The Maya developed a base 20 number system that included the concept of '0'.

What was a major accomplishment of the Mayans in astronomy?

They created a more precise calendar due to their prioritization of math and astronomy.

What farming innovation did the Aztecs use?

The Aztecs used chinampas, swampy islands, for farming to control soil fertility and watering.

How many people could one chinampa feed compared to Chinese farming techniques?

One chinampa could feed 6 people, while the most advanced Chinese farming technique could only feed 1 person per acre.

What motivated the Spanish monarchy to fund Columbus's voyage?

The Spanish monarchy sought an overseas route to Asia to compete with Portugal and reduce the costs and dangers of overland travel.

How did domesticable animals impact the encounter between Europeans and Americans?

European horses gave Europeans an advantage in initial contact with Native Americans, who had never seen such animals before.

What does the Columbian Exchange refer to?

The Columbian Exchange refers to the exchange of plants and animals between Europeans and Americans, shaping the modern world.

What is a virgin soil epidemic?

A virgin soil epidemic occurs when a disease is introduced to a new area without previous inherited immunity.

What was the effect of diseases brought by Europeans on the Native American population?

Diseases killed approximately 90% of natives in the Americas, affecting populations greatly, as seen with the Aztecs dropping from 25 million to just 2 million.

What myths about the Spanish Empire have been amplified in older accounts?

Older accounts suggest that Spaniards were superior and more developed than Native Americans, overlooking the complexities and internal conflicts among Native societies.

How did internal conflicts affect the Aztec Empire when Cortes arrived?

Many natives resented Aztec rulers, causing internal conflicts that weakened their unity against the Spanish conquerors.