Spain Part II

Spread of Christianity in Spanish Colonies

Christianity played an important role in the colonization of the Western Hemisphere. Many of the conquistadors used Christianity for their reason to conquer all of the indigenous cultures. They felt the need to spread of the word of god was worthy to take over an ungodly nation, and so that is what they did. Although Christianity was vigorously enforced upon the Native people, many people did welcome it into their lives whole-heartedly. Christianity changed the face of life in the Americas. For example, in Mexico after the annexation of the Aztec Empire many people still lived in their native dwellings, but they would now be decorated with a picture of the Virgin Mary; and the Christian cathedral became an iconic part of the layout of any Mexican towncenter. Even in modern times, Christianity is a huge aspect in Central and South America.

Spain in Search of GoldOther than spreading Christianity to the people that are without it, the other more obvious reason why Spain so vigorously conquered the lands in South and Central America was in search of gold! The Aztec, Maya, and Inca were all known for wearing ridiculous amounts of gold. The civilizations in Central and South America had a large amount of gold and even more lay waiting still in the land.

Life of a ConquistadorThe conquistadors could expect a good life after the conquering of a native culture. For example, after the overthrowing of the Aztec Empire the conquistadors were given the prestige, power, and position of the Aztec Nobility. They could always expect a large chunk of land, power, and lots of money. They were also granted with what is known as encomiendas, this meant that in turn for teaching the native people Christianity, they would be paid tribute through labor.