Mr. Mizell
EQ: Why and how did the Conquistadors conquer Latin America?
From Trade to Conquest Spain wants to colonize the new world but first needs to conquer the natives Motivation? Expand Empire Empire = prestige and power Gold, Silver, resources, etc…
The Conquistadors Those sent by Spain to conquer parts of Latin America Hernan Cortes and Francisco Pizarro
Hernan Cortes Lands in Mexico in 1519 which was ruled by the Aztec Empire The Aztec Empire had 7 – 10 million people Tensions rise and war breaks out – Aztecs defeated
Francisco Pizarro Lands in South America in Fights the Incan Empire Battle of Cajamarca 200 Spanish vs 4,000-8,000 Incas Spanish victory Quick Story: Capture Atahualpa (leader) Room of Gold, two of Silver (17ft by 22ft)
How did the Conquistadors succeed? Weapons, armor (steel) Strategy – allying with other tribes Government of Aztec and Inca Empires Top down leadership Get rid of the Emperor and replace with Cortes/Pizarro Disease – Measles, smallpox, typhus Killed off 90-95% of population
Taking the Resources
On a separate sheet of paper answer the following: 1. How did the point of view of natives and their experiences differ from the Conquistadors? 2. How and why did the Conquistadors conquer Latin America