In 1492, Christopher Columbus, an Italian explorer, led an exploration that would lead to the rise of Spain’s power. The parts that are now known as South, Central, and North America were invaded and then colonized by Christopher Columbus and Juan Ponce de Leon. After Spain conquered parts of the Americas, it increased their knowledge of new land, also called ‘New World’. Using that knowledge, the Spanish took advantage of the high status that was given to them due to the substantial amount of newly-discovered land. The Spanish changed the New World in many ways, which caused Spain to become one of the most powerful countries throughout the sixteenth century.
Columbus was highly supported by the Spanish …show more content…
It boosted power because of relations with other countries outside of Europe and territories owned. Spanish conquistadors commenced colonial expansion under control of the Spanish Empire. Colonial expansion was mainly motivated by trade and the spread of Christian faith through the change of the indigenous groups that occupied the New World. To most Spaniards, New Spain was considered one of the greatest achievements and milestones for the country of Spain. Because of the resources found in New Spain, wealth, economic and Spain’s trades were highly valued and looked up upon. It was considered the “Golden Age of Spain” ( The American Promise, 45 ). It was called the Golden age because there was peace while countries gained power and wealth. In conclusion, Spain proceeded to gain power throughout the sixteenth century, prior to the discovery of the New World. Christopher Columbus and Juan Ponce de Leon led the Spanish exploration of the New World. The course of the New World explorations was deeply affected by the interactions between settlers and indigenous