What bad things did the Spanish conquistadors do?

They Spread Devastating Diseases Like previous European explorers before them, when the conquistadors landed in the Americas, they unknowingly spread smallpox. Since these diseases were new to the Aztec world, the epidemic spread quickly – eventually wiping out 90\% of the indigenous population.

Were Spanish conquistadors good or bad?

Yes, they were brutal by our standards, but the Spanish/Portugese conquistadors were devoted to God, monarch, country and family. They were products of a bygone age that focused on chivalry and medivalism. They were mostly Catholic, which is why they are victims of the “Black Legend” against Spain/Portugal.

Who was the cruelest Conquistador?

1. Hernán Cortés. Finally, the worst of the worst: you know you’re bad when Neil Young writes a song about your brutality.

What did the conquerors of Spain do?

The Spanish conquistadors were essentially sanctioned pirates. Their goal was to claim land and resources for their investors and conquer natives of other lands for treasure and glory. They also were vital in the spread and enforcement of religion.

How did the conquistadors harm the natives?

Native americans got sick because of smallpox and so the conquistadors harmed the native americans by forcing them into labor. The Spanish had many advantages over the Aztec and inca despite being outnumbered. They had horses, firearms, imunity to disease and strong alliances.

What did the conquistadors do that was good?

In Mexico, conquistadors found great golden treasures, including great discs of gold, masks, jewelry, and even gold dust and bars. This did not even count the vast treasures taken later when the Inca capital city of Cuzco was looted.

How did the conquistadors defeat the Aztecs?

During the Spaniards’ retreat, they defeated a large Aztec army at Otumba and then rejoined their Tlaxcaltec allies. In May 1521, Cortés returned to Tenochtitlán, and after a three-month siege the city fell. This victory marked the fall of the Aztec empire.

How was Hernan Cortes cruel?

By all accounts, he was arrogant, defiant, self-serving, greedy, and generally indifferent to the indigenous people he sought to conquer. From slaughtering innocent people to enslaving natives and attempting to eradicate their religion and culture, his exploits make him one of the most controversial figures in history.

How did the Spanish mistreat the natives?

Altered Lifestyles The Spanish altered Indian life in many ways. Their intrusion resulted in changing tribal customs and religious traditions. Tribal alliances were shifted and new rivalries were developed. Indians lost their land, their families, and their lives.