What is Imperialism? Extending a country’s influence through diplomacy or military force.
Imperialism in the Americas Spain conquers most of the land in the Americas. - Britain, France, and Holland also join in. They subjugate (enslave) two major civilizations - The Aztecs and Incas They grow very rich off of the land they colonize. - They steal the wealth of the Aztecs and Incas.
Spanish Empire
Hernan Cortes Set sail for the Americas at age 19. Conquered the Aztec empire. Became the governor of “New Spain”, modern day Mexico
Fransisco Pizarro Helped the Spanish find the Pacific Ocean Conquered the Incas in modern day Peru Established the city of Lima
Encomienda System Encomienda System – Queen of Spain gives conquistadores land and Indians as a reward. Haciendas – large estates of land for farming or ranching.
New Social Classes 1. Peninsulares – people born in Spain. 2. Criollos – white people born in Latin America 3. Mestizos – Mixed European/Indian 4. Slaves and Natives
Slave Trade
Over 10 millions slaves were taken to Latin America. Most came from West Africa.
Catholic Church Spain sent missionaries to convert Natives and teach them Spanish. Natives blended their culture with Spanish. Both practices became huge parts of Latin American culture.