Expansion of Empire: conquistadores; economic and social impact of the New World on Spain
Spanish soldiers called conquistadores (conquerors) seized vast territories in the Americas from the 1490s onwards. The gold and silver they sent back transformed — and ultimately damaged — Spain's economy and society.
Real World
The flood of Aztec and Inca silver into Spain mirrors the 'resource curse' seen in oil-rich states like Venezuela today, where sudden commodity wealth inflates prices and hollows out domestic industry rather than building lasting prosperity.
Exam Focus
Distinguish short-term economic gains (silver influx) from long-term damage (inflation, deindustrialisation) — mark schemes reward this cause-versus-consequence structure.
Essay Framework
Use PEEL to structure every paragraph. Tap each step for guidance and an example.
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