Spanish conquistadors arrived in South America searching for God, gold, and glory—meaning, they wanted to spread Christianity, and gain riches and fame for Spain.

Question

The Spanish conquering of South America changed the region and its people. The Spanish killed many of the natives and survivors were forced to work on plantations, ranches, and in mines. Many died as a result of bad working conditions and European diseases.
Catholic missionaries wanted native populations to change their religious beliefs and follow Christianity. Many native people began to practice the Catholic faith, and some mixed their own religious practices with Christianity.
European (Spanish/Portuguese) Point of View

Answer 1

From the European perspective, particularly that of the Spanish and Portuguese conquistadors and missionaries, the conquest of South America was seen as a noble and necessary endeavor. They believed they were fulfilling a divine mission to spread Christianity and bring enlightenment to what they viewed as a "heathen" land. Here are some key points that reflect their viewpoint:

1. Divine Mandate: Conquistadors often viewed their efforts as a fulfillment of God’s will. The spread of Catholicism was seen not only as a religious duty but also as a moral obligation to save souls from eternal damnation. Catholic missionaries, in particular, saw their work as a mission to civilize and convert indigenous populations.

2. Civilizing Mission: Europeans believed that they were bringing civilization to the "savage" peoples of South America. They viewed their own culture, customs, and beliefs as superior, and sought to replace indigenous practices with European norms, which they considered more advanced and enlightened.

3. Economic Opportunity: The promise of wealth through the acquisition of gold and silver was a major driving force. Many conquistadors sought fortune, and the establishment of colonies was seen as a way to tap into the abundant resources of the New World. This was not only for personal enrichment but also for the glory and power of the Spanish Crown, which funded these expeditions.

4. National Glory: The conquests were viewed as a means to enhance national prestige and power. Successful conquests and the establishment of colonies were seen as victories for Spain and Portugal, which increased their influence on the global stage. The fame associated with exploration and conquest inspired many to follow in the footsteps of renowned figures like Hernán Cortés and Francisco Pizarro.

5. Justification of Violence: The violent means by which the conquest was achieved were often justified by the belief that indigenous peoples were inferior and needed to be subdued for their own good. The sheer brutality of the conquests was often downplayed or rationalized as a necessary part of achieving a greater goal—the spread of Christianity and European civilization.

6. Trade and Resources: The Europeans also saw the potential for trade and the exploitation of new resources. The establishment of plantations and mines was viewed as an opportunity to cultivate cash crops and extract valuable minerals, leading to a burgeoning trade network that would benefit Europe economically.

In summary, the European (Spanish/Portuguese) point of view during the conquest of South America was characterized by a combination of religious zeal, a belief in cultural superiority, economic ambition, and the desire for national prestige. This perspective largely shaped the interactions with the indigenous population and had profound consequences for the history and development of the continent.