Spanish Empire

Definition

The Spanish Empire was one of the largest empires in history that existed from late 15th century until early 19th century. It included territories in Europe, Americas (North & South), Africa & Asia.

Related terms

Conquistadors: These were explorers/soldiers from Spain who conquered large areas of Central America, South America & Caribbean during 16th-17th centuries.

Encomienda System: A labor system in Spanish America and the Philippines where Spanish authorities granted colonial landlords the service of a certain number of indigenous people.

Habsburg Spain: This refers to Spain during the 16th and 17th centuries when it was ruled by kings from the House of Habsburg.