Spanish Colonies

The Arrival of Spain in the New World

In 1492, Christopher Columbus landed in the Caribbean under the Spanish crown. His voyage marked the beginning of European colonization. Spain, eager to expand its empire, quickly followed with more expeditions. Soon after, explorers like Hernán Cortés and Francisco Pizarro arrived, driven by gold, glory, and God.

The Spanish crown financed these expeditions to secure land, convert indigenous people, and extract valuable resources. As more ships arrived, native societies faced profound disruption. The Spanish brought firearms, steel, horses, and diseases—tools that gave them a terrifying advantage.

Although indigenous civilizations like the Aztecs and Incas showed strength, Spain eventually dominated them. Disease decimated millions, and Spanish military tactics overwhelmed

The historic 1715 Fleet Shipwreck holds legendary status among maritime disasters. This catastrophe occurred on the eastern coast of Florida on July 31, 1715, when Spanish ships laden with treasure met their end.

The Fleet's Departure

The Spanish fleet set sail from Havana, Cuba, aiming to return to Spain. Altogether, the ships carried a vast fortune of gold, silver, and precious gems. In fact, the treasure's estimated worth was millions of pesos, and the ships formed a crucial part of Spain's colonial wealth.

The Storm That Changed History

A violent hurricane struck the fleet off the coast of Florida without warning. The ships struggled against fierce winds and waves, but the fleet

Introduction

In the annals of South American history, the legacy of Spanish colonization looms large. Above all, it profoundly shaped the region's cultural, social, and economic landscapes. Central to this influence was the establishment of a robust monetary system, centered around the escudo. This article delves into the origins, evolution, and impact of the history of South American escudos. Basically, tracing their journey from the Spanish conquest to their enduring legacy in modern times.

Origins of Spanish Colonization in South America:

The origins of Spanish colonization in South America trace back to the early 16th century. Particularly, when Spanish explorers, spurred by dreams of