1. Spain Prepares for Exploration

2. Spain and the Reconquista 800 years before Columbus leaves in 1492, Spanish battling to regain land –The Moors dominate land in Spain –Moors are Islamic people from northwest Africa –800 year struggle called Reconquista, or reconquest

3. The Moors 711 Moors gain control of Spain Brought Islamic ideas/goods to Spain Rich culture flourished, wealthy

4. The Christians & Reconquista Completed Before Moors arrive, Christians dominate Believed God “wished” them to drive out Moors Took 800 years because not only fighting Moors but themselves Little by little Christians regain land Moors last stronghold was Granada, 1492 pushed out

5. The Soldiers of Spain Fighting was a way of life, job, act of faith After defeating their opponent, they would take wealth, went to next conquest After Moors defeat, soldiers had no purpose Wanted new world to conquer

6. Columbus’s Voyage Italian by birth, first approaches Portugal First attempt w/ Queen Isabella/King Ferdinand V failed, changed mind in 1492 Promised to find route to China/India –Riches and faith would spread –Beat Portugal to the punch Did not reach India; instead 2 months later, landed on unknown shore –Actually was in the Caribbean –Encountered Indigenous or native people, called them “indians” –King/Queen pleased w/ America’s riches