1. Spanish Exploration of the Americas

2. Spanish Motives The Spanish came for the three “Gs” 1. GOD- Convert the Natives to Christianity 2. GOLD- Spain was competing to be the strongest and richest empire in the world 3. GLORY- Spanish conquistadors (conquerors) were famous heroes * The Spanish were very cruel in achieving its goals

3. Christopher Columbus

4. In 1492, Christopher Columbus was financially sponsored by Spain to sail west from Europe In 1492, Christopher Columbus was financially sponsored by Spain to sail west from Europe Although Columbus was from Italy, he sailed for Spain Although Columbus was from Italy, he sailed for Spain Queen Isabella & King Ferdinand sponsored Columbus’ voyages Queen Isabella & King Ferdinand sponsored Columbus’ voyages

5. Columbus was hoping to find a westward shortcut to China for trade Columbus was hoping to find a westward shortcut to China for trade Instead, he actually landed in a new land, without ever knowing it Instead, he actually landed in a new land, without ever knowing it

6. Columbus actually explored the Caribbean Islands, including the Bahamas, “Hispaniola” (today’s Haiti & Dominican Republic) & Venezuela Columbus actually explored the Caribbean Islands, including the Bahamas, “Hispaniola” (today’s Haiti & Dominican Republic) & Venezuela Today, some still call the Caribbean the “West Indies” because Columbus though he was in India Today, some still call the Caribbean the “West Indies” because Columbus though he was in India

9. He called the people that he met “Indios” or Indians He called the people that he met “Indios” or Indians