What sequence of steps did the Spanish follow to establish colonies in the Americas?
1. Exploration: The Spanish monarchs funded expeditions to explore the Americas, led by famous explorers such as Christopher Columbus, Hernán Cortés, and Francisco Pizarro.
2. Conquest: The Spanish soldiers conquered native populations and established their dominance over the land, often using brutal force and tactics such as disease, enslavement, and military superiority.
3. Settlement: After the conquest of an area, Spanish settlers would establish colonies and towns, bringing their own culture, language, and religion to the new world.
4. Encomienda system: The Spanish implemented an encomienda system, where the natives were forced to work for the Spanish colonizers, in exchange for protection and Christian education.
5. Extraction of resources: The Spanish colonies were rich in natural resources, and the Spanish extracted valuable minerals, such as gold and silver, as well as agricultural products, such as sugar and tobacco.
6. Administration: The Spanish established a central government structure, led by viceroys and governors, to oversee the colonies and ensure that they remained loyal to Spain.
7. Missionary work: The Spanish also sent missionaries to convert the native populations to Christianity, building churches and establishing religious orders.
8. Intermarriage: Over time, the Spanish began to intermarry with the native populations, leading to a blending of cultures and the development of a distinct Hispanic-American identity.