What sequence of steps did the spanish follow to establich colonies in the americas
The Spanish followed a sequence of steps to establish colonies in the Americas:
1. Exploration and Reconnaissance: Spanish explorers, such as Christopher Columbus, embarked on voyages to find new trade routes to Asia. As a result, they stumbled upon the Americas and began exploring and mapping the new lands.
2. Establishing Claim: Once they reached a new land, Spanish explorers would claim it for Spain by planting a flag or performing a ceremony. This act of claiming the land was known as "taking possession" or "taking possession in the name of the Crown."
3. Negotiations and Alliances: Spanish explorers would often negotiate with local indigenous peoples, establishing trade alliances or seeking their support against rival European powers. They would offer gifts, trinkets, and establish friendly relationships to foster cooperation.
4. Conquest: In some cases, negotiations and alliances weren't enough. Spanish conquistadors, armed with superior weapons and technology, engaged in military campaigns against indigenous civilizations to subjugate and control the territories. Conquistadors, such as Hernán Cortés in Mexico and Francisco Pizarro in Peru, famously conquered powerful empires like the Aztecs and the Incas.
5. Establishing Colonies: After conquering a territory, the Spanish would establish colonies by building forts and towns. These colonies served as administrative and economic centers to exploit the resources and labor of the conquered lands. Spanish settlers, known as colonists or settlers, were sent to live in these newly established colonies.
6. Exploitation and Administration: The primary objective of the Spanish colonies was to extract valuable resources such as gold, silver, and other precious commodities. The Spanish crown appointed officials, such as viceroys and governors, to oversee the administration of the colonies and enforce Spanish laws. They established systems of governance, introduced Spanish culture and religion, and created a hierarchical social structure.
It is important to note that this sequence of steps varied in different regions of the Americas and among different Spanish explorers and conquistadors. The colonization process was not uniform, and there were significant variations and complexities depending on the specific circumstances in each colony.