The Spanish established settlements in various regions across the globe, particularly during the Age of Exploration from the late 15th century onward. Here are some key areas where the Spanish settled:
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The Americas: This includes a vast territory, broken down into several regions:
- Caribbean: The islands of Hispaniola (modern-day Haiti and the Dominican Republic), Cuba, Puerto Rico, and Jamaica were among the first Spanish settlements.
- Central America: Areas like present-day Mexico (with Tenochtitlán, now Mexico City, as a primary settlement), Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica.
- South America: Significant settlements were established in countries like Peru (with Lima as a major city), Colombia, Venezuela, Ecuador, Chile, and Argentina. The Incan Empire was particularly influenced by Spanish colonization.
- North America: Spanish explorers and settlers founded cities such as St. Augustine in Florida, Santa Fe in New Mexico, and San Antonio in Texas, as well as settlements in California and along the Gulf Coast.
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The Philippines: The Spanish colonized the Philippines in the 16th century, establishing Manila as a significant trade hub and cultural center in Asia.
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Parts of Africa: The Spanish settled in various locations, including the Canary Islands, Ceuta, and Melilla, which are still under Spanish control today.
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Europe: Spain itself has had numerous settlements and regions where various ethnic groups and cultures intermixed, particularly during the Reconquista and the following centuries.
Throughout these regions, the Spanish introduced their language, culture, religion (predominantly Catholicism), and governance systems, profoundly influencing local societies.