Introduction
European exploration is one of the most impactful events in global history. It was motivated by the following factors, such as fame, conquest, spreading of religion, and economic benefit. In regards to discovering the Americas, they wanted to convert Natives to Christianity, thus asserting its dominance worldwide. Regarding economic benefits, the Europeans wanted easier access to the trade points in the East. Due to the competition between the Spanish and the Portuguese for the sake of obtaining new territories, Europeans became more drawn to colonizing the Americas. In the process of that conquest and conversion to Christianity, they would make excuses for the mass genocide of the natives on the newly discovered continents. Thus, these aforementioned factors became the reason for the exploration of the Americas.
Discussion
The conquest of Central and South America by the Spanish was predetermined by the territorial Treaty of Tordesillas of 1494. Hernan Cortes’ first attempt at taking over Tenochtitlan failed due to the fierce response of the Aztecs. However, he succeeded after having found people who were opposed to the regime. Francisco Pizarro faced a similar fate to Hernan’s, as his primary attempt was rather unsuccessful.
Conclusion
However, after having murdered the emperor Atahualpa, he gained ownership of the Inca Empire before his assassination in 1541. The conquest of Central America was motivated by King Fernando V’s permission to colonize it. Having discovered the Pacific Ocean, Vasco Balboa claimed its lands as a part of Spain. After establishing decent communications with the natives and exploring the land, this territory became the most treasured colony in Central America. However, these events were then followed by the deaths of locals due to European diseases.