Which are true of the Spanish explorations of North and South America?

Question

They found several treasures of silver and gold.
They were driven by a tremendous desire for farmland.
They claimed vast areas of land for Spain.
They often sought legends and myths.

Answer 1

All of the statements you provided are true regarding the Spanish explorations of North and South America:

1. They found several treasures of silver and gold: Spanish explorers, particularly in South America, encountered vast amounts of precious metals, notably in places like Peru (the Inca Empire) and Mexico (the Aztec Empire), leading to significant wealth for Spain.

2. They were driven by a tremendous desire for farmland: While searching for wealth was a primary motivator, the Spanish also sought new land for agriculture and settlement, which included the desire to cultivate crops and establish plantations.

3. They claimed vast areas of land for Spain: Spanish explorers claimed extensive territories across both continents for Spain, with key figures like Hernán Cortés in Mexico and Francisco Pizarro in Peru making significant territorial claims.

4. They often sought legends and myths: Many explorers were inspired by legends of mythical cities or riches, such as the fabled "City of Gold" (El Dorado) or the Fountain of Youth, which drove their expeditions and shaped their explorations.

In summary, all the statements accurately reflect aspects of Spanish explorations in the Americas.