Conquest of the Americas

Definition

This term refers to exploration and colonization by European powers (especially Spain) across North and South America following Christopher Columbus' discovery in 1492. It involved subjugation and often extermination of indigenous populations.

Related terms

Colonization: The act of establishing control over the indigenous people of an area.

Imperialism: A policy or ideology by a nation to maintain colonies around the world.

Indigenous Peoples: Ethnic groups who are original inhabitants of a given region, in contrast to groups that have settled or occupied the area more recently.