AP US History in 1 Minute Daily: Spanish Conquest of the Americas (Day 10/309)

Welcome to day 10 of APUSH in 1 Minute Daily!

Today I will be explaining the Spanish Conquest of the Americas.

European Exploration and Land Claims, 1488-1610 Global History of Art and Architecture

In 1492, the European exploration and conquest of the Americas began with Christopher Columbus. On quests for wealth, power, and expansion many other conquistadors quickly followed.

Conquest of Tenochtitlan Wikimedia Commons

Among the most notable was Hernán Cortés. Despite many indigenous communities, including the Maya and Aztec, being known for their military prowess, the Spanish were able to defeat civilizations due to several important reasons.

Image of a Mesoamerican infected with smallpox. National Library of Medicine- Native Voices

First, many American Indians were ill and dying from the spread of infectious diseases.

Aztec Weaponry and Equipment Aztecs and Tenochtitlan

Secondly, the Spanish possessed superior weaponry.

Tlaxcalans and a Spaniard fighting against Chichimecas. Wikimedia Commons

Next, the Spanish formed alliances with enemy tribes to increase their military strength.

Montezuma watching a comet Bill of Rights Institute

Finally, religious superstitions and cultural beliefs (ex: myth of friendship) led to misunderstandings which the Spanish used to their advantage.

So while many indigenous civilizations were powerful, several factors inhibited their ability to prevent Spanish conquest

Join me tomorrow as I explain an effect of this conquest: The Encomienda System in our next APUSH in 1 Minute Daily!