Economic Motives:
* Gold and Silver: The discovery of gold and silver in the Americas, particularly in Mexico and Peru, fueled a relentless pursuit of wealth. This was a key driving force behind Spanish exploration and conquest.
* Trade Routes: Spain sought to establish new trade routes to Asia, bypassing the existing routes controlled by the Ottoman Empire. This led to explorations across the Atlantic and the eventual discovery of the Americas.
* Mercantilism: The prevailing economic theory of the time, mercantilism, emphasized acquiring wealth through trade and colonization. Spain aimed to establish colonies and exploit their resources to increase its national power and wealth.
Religious Motives:
* Spread of Christianity: Spain was a staunchly Catholic nation, and the desire to convert indigenous populations to Christianity played a significant role in its exploration and colonization efforts. The "Reconquista," the centuries-long campaign to reclaim Spain from the Moors, had instilled a strong sense of religious fervor and a desire to spread the faith.
Political Motives:
* National Glory and Prestige: Spain sought to establish itself as a dominant global power, and exploration and conquest were seen as essential tools for achieving this goal. The discoveries and achievements of Spanish explorers contributed to national pride and prestige.
* Rivalry with Portugal: Spain was locked in fierce competition with Portugal for control of the newly discovered lands. This rivalry further spurred both countries to explore and claim new territories.
Other Motives:
* Adventure and Exploration: The spirit of adventure and discovery was strong among the Spanish elite, and many were eager to explore the unknown and make their fortunes.
* Military Prowess: The Spanish had a strong military tradition, and many saw exploration and conquest as opportunities to demonstrate their skill and valor.
It's important to note that these motives often intertwined. While the pursuit of wealth was undoubtedly a major driving force, religious zeal and national glory were equally important. These factors, combined with the Spanish monarchy's unwavering support, fueled the period of intense exploration and conquest that defined the early 16th century.