Spanish Exploration and Labor in the Colonial System

Spanish dominance in the Americas was based on more than a papal ruling or treaty; it began with ambitious and skilled leaders Ferdinand and Isabella.
With adventurous explorers and conquerors (conquistadores) and labor provided by Indians and enslaved Africans, Spain rapidly expanded its wealth and power.

Vasco Núñez de Balboa crossed the Isthmus of Panama to reach the Pacific Ocean.
One of Ferdinand Magellan's ships completed the circumnavigation of the world (Magellan died before finishing the voyage).
Hernán Cortés conquered the Aztecs in Mexico.
Francisco Pizarro conquered the Incas in Peru.
The conquistadores sent ships loaded with gold and silver back to Spain from Mexico and Peru, increasing the gold supply and making Spain the richest and most powerful kingdom in Europe.
Spain's success encouraged other states to turn to the Americas in search of gold and power.

The influx of gold and silver increased Spain's wealth, reinforcing its European dominance.
The wealth attracted other states to the Americas seeking gold and power.

In Mexico and Peru, the Spanish encountered the well-organized and populous Aztec and Inca empires.
Even after diseases killed most natives, millions survived.
The Spanish incorporated surviving Indians into their empire.
Encomienda system: the king granted natives who lived on a tract of land to individual Spaniards; these Indians were forced to farm or work in the mines; the fruits of their labor went to the Spanish, who in turn had to "care" for the Indians.