la conquista de america History Timeline and Biographies

Christopher Columbus Discovers America

In 1492, Christopher Columbus, under the sponsorship of Spain, made his first voyage across the Atlantic Ocean, landing in the Bahamas. This event marked the beginning of la conquista de America, as it opened the door for European exploration and eventual colonization of the New World.

Hernán Cortés Arrives in Mexico

In 1519, Hernán Cortés landed on the coast of Mexico, marking a pivotal moment in la conquista de America. He began his expedition to conquer the Aztec Empire, which would lead to significant territorial gains for Spain and the establishment of New Spain.

Fall of Tenochtitlan

In 1521, after a prolonged siege, Hernán Cortés and his forces captured Tenochtitlan, the capital of the Aztec Empire. This event symbolized a major triumph in la conquista de America, resulting in the collapse of one of the most powerful indigenous civilizations in the Americas.

Fall of the Inca Empire

In 1533, Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro executed the last Inca emperor, Atahualpa, leading to the fall of the Inca Empire. This event was another significant milestone in la conquista de America, allowing Spain to control vast territories in South America, particularly Peru.

Laws of the Indies Enacted

In 1542, the Spanish Crown enacted the Laws of the Indies, which aimed to regulate the behavior of Spanish colonizers in the Americas. These laws were part of la conquista de America, as they sought to protect indigenous peoples and establish order in the newly acquired territories.

Establishment of St. Augustine

In 1565, Spain established St. Augustine in Florida, the first permanent European settlement in North America. This event marked an expansion of la conquista de America into what is now the United States, highlighting Spain's ongoing efforts to colonize the continent.

Foundation of Jamestown

In 1607, the English founded Jamestown in Virginia, representing a significant shift in la conquista de America as other European powers began to establish their own colonies. This marked the beginning of English colonization efforts in North America, competing with Spanish interests.

Pilgrims Land at Plymouth Rock

In 1620, the Pilgrims arrived at Plymouth Rock, further signifying the expansion of European settlements in America. This event is part of the broader narrative of la conquista de America, as it illustrates the diverse motivations of settlers, including religious freedom and economic opportunity.

Pueblo Revolt in New Mexico

In 1680, the Pueblo Revolt occurred, where Native Americans rose against Spanish rule in New Mexico. This uprising was a response to the oppressive policies of la conquista de America and highlighted the resistance of indigenous peoples against colonization.

American Revolution Begins

In 1776, the American Revolution began, leading to the independence of the thirteen colonies from British rule. This event can be viewed as a culmination of the effects of la conquista de America, as it set the stage for the emergence of a new nation in the territories once dominated by European powers.

Mexican Independence from Spain

In 1821, Mexico gained independence from Spain, marking the end of colonial rule established during la conquista de America. This event signified the rise of national identities in the Americas and the decline of Spanish colonial influence.

Spanish-American War

In 1898, the Spanish-American War resulted in the U.S. acquisition of former Spanish territories, including Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines. This conflict symbolized the end of the Spanish Empire in the Americas, a direct consequence of the earlier la conquista de America.

Cuban Revolution

In 1959, the Cuban Revolution led to the establishment of a socialist state in Cuba, representing a significant shift in the political landscape of the Americas. This event can be seen as a response to the legacies of la conquista de America, as it challenged the influence of colonial powers and their descendants in the region.

Commemoration of the 500th Anniversary of the Conquest of Mexico

In 2020, various events were held to commemorate the 500th anniversary of the fall of Tenochtitlan, reflecting on the impact of la conquista de America on contemporary society and the ongoing discussions around colonialism and indigenous rights.