Spanish Conquest & Colonization: Impact on Spain
Conquest and Colonization (1519-1550)
The process began with Magellan and Elcano’s first circumnavigation of the world (1519-1522), passing Cape Horn. The first stage of the conquest was led by Hernán Cortés. He landed in Mexico, founded Veracruz, and militarily dominated the Aztecs (1522) and a large area inhabited by the Mayans. This became the viceroyalty of New Spain. The second stage was directed by Francisco Pizarro, who conquered the Inca Empire (Peru, Ecuador) and its capital, Cuzco, in 1532. The rapid fall of these pre-Columbian empires was due to internal divisions, and the appearance, weapons, and cruelty of the conquistadors.
In North America, Cabeza de Vaca explored Florida, Texas, and southern California. Orellana explored the Amazon. The colonization and exploitation of the territory was done through agreements between the conquistadors and the Crown, called capitulations, which established objectives and the division of spoils. Settlers included sailors and artisans. Landless peasants and Indians were forced to work the land through a system of *encomiendas*, where they were given a group of Indigenous people to evangelize and educate. In practice, they were subjected to forced labor.
A debate occurred regarding the *just titles*, with settlers claiming the right to subdue the Indigenous population, leading to a demographic catastrophe.
Impact of America on Spain
The discovery of America was one of the most important events in European history. It confirmed the existence of a new continent, showed that the Earth was round, and modified cartography and navigation.
Population and Economy
Emigration to America was scarce and mostly male, restricted to exclude Muslims, converts, those condemned by the Inquisition, Gypsies, and criminals. Products of colonial origin, such as cocoa, tobacco, and maize, were consumed only by the ruling classes. The influx of silver and gold dominated trade during the 16th and 17th centuries, causing constant inflation in Europe, known as the *Price Revolution*. The money was invested unproductively in luxury consumption and not in productive economies. Castilian society acted with a colonial mentality from the beginning.
The Political Model of the Habsburgs
The Union of Kingdoms
A decentralized, multinational monarchy, or *polysynody*, primarily under the Crown of Castile. The Habsburgs developed a system of government through synods or councils.
- The Council of State: Created by Charles I, it comprised personalities from different kingdoms, representing the unity of the monarchy. Its expertise included foreign policy, strength and peace, and major state issues. It was presided over by the king.
- Territorial Councils: These councils dealt with specific matters of each kingdom, with technicians in specific roles (e.g., the Inquisition, military orders, finance).
Territorial Administration
- Viceroys: Assumed the role of the monarch in some non-Castilian territories.
- The Courts: Maintained the same structure and functions as in the late Middle Ages.
- The Audiences: Served as higher courts in their respective territories.
Local Government and the Feudal System
There was a sale of municipal offices and *villazgo* privileges.
Economy and Society in 16th-Century Spain
American expansion was a source of wealth for the Hispanic monarchy, but it also began a series of “missed opportunities.” The 16th century saw a period of economic expansion, favored by population growth and an increase in the money supply resulting from the gold and silver from America. This unleashed the *Price Revolution*.
Causes of Spanish Economic Failure
- Costs of ongoing wars.
- Conservative and anti-bourgeois mentality.
- Industrial superiority of the Netherlands, England, and France.
Gold and silver ended up enriching foreign powers.
Social Structure
Society remained largely class-based, with the nobility preeminent. 5% were nobles of *toga* and sword. Between 5% and 10% of the population was noble. The most widespread and robust society was dominated by more conservative groups. The highest value was not to be a commoner but a *hidalgo* (noble), even without fortune.
Among the underprivileged were the *pecheros* (taxpayers), 80% of whom were farmers, and the urban population. Distinct groups included:
- Moors: Marginalized and persecuted.
- Jewish Converts: Also marginalized and persecuted.
Purity of blood was necessary for social prestige. Being an *Old Christian* was a source of pride.