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The Famous Spanish Conquistadors
Most people have heard stories of the famous Spanish conquistadors, who were extremely active during the Age of Exploration to the new world. In fact, the Spanish conquistadors were so well skilled and successful in their attempts that they were directly responsible for a large part of the eastern spice trade, as well as creating immense wealth for their country of Spain. Spices and gold, along with the discovery of silver made Spain a very, powerful country.
The name conquistadors simply mean, “conquer”, which is exactly what these men did. The Spanish conquistadors were faithful explorers and soldiers, dedicating their lives to the betterment of their beloved Spain. The Muslim Moors lost control of the Iberian Peninsula to the Spanish conquistadors after 800 years of battle. This particular victory, known as the “reconquista”, consisted of Holy War fighting. The Spanish soldiers and explorers making the journey to the New World took on the name of “conquistador”.
Keep in mind that in addition to the wealth enjoyed by the spice, gold, and silver trades the Spanish conquistadors had other motives. For instance, they sought to hold a position of prestige and power, key elements to building the Spanish Empire. Additionally, the conquistadors wanted to convert natives to the Catholic religion, which is why priests always traveled with the explorers.
The Spanish conquistadors saw the Indians as being savage. The oppression and exploitation associated with the natives became known as the “Encomienda System”, which was similar to the Medieval Feudal System. Regardless, the goal was to infiltrate the Indian communities with religion so they would change. However, while the conversion process was taking place, the Spanish conquistadors promised to provide instruction for religion, along with protection to those who converted.
Unfortunately, this particular system was horribly abused in that Spanish conquistadors far from Spain did not abide by the system’s rules. The result was further oppression and exploitation, as well as abuse to the Indian people at the hands of the conquistadors. This meant a complete loss of freedom and rights for the Indian people. Rather than be respected, the Spanish conquistadors grew to be feared, which is why we still hear unfavorable stories today. The good news for the Indian people was that in 1542, the current system was changed.
Remember, although many of the Spanish conquistadors were dishonest and abusive, some were true to their beliefs, wanting desperately to better Spain. Some of the better know conquistadors include Hernan Cortes, Juan Ponce de Leon, Francisco Pizarro, Pedro de Valdivia, Panfilo de Narvaez, Sebastian de Belalcazar, and Francisco Hernandez de Cordoba. Regardless, the fact stands that the Spanish conquistadors did play a huge role in the growth and success of their country Spain.
