What were the major discoveries and achievements of Spanish explorers during this period?

During the Age of Exploration, Spanish explorers made several major discoveries and achievements. Some of the notable ones include:

1. Christopher Columbus: Columbus is credited with discovering the Americas in 1492, opening up a new era of exploration and colonization. His voyages led to the establishment of Spanish colonies in the Caribbean and laid the foundation for future Spanish expeditions.

2. Ferdinand Magellan: Magellan's expedition, which began in 1519, became the first to circumnavigate the globe. Although Magellan died during the journey, his crew completed the voyage, proving that the Earth was round and significantly expanding knowledge of the world's geography.

3. Hernán Cortés: Cortés led the conquest of the Aztec Empire in present-day Mexico in the early 16th century. This conquest brought vast territories under Spanish control and resulted in the colonization of Mexico.

4. Francisco Pizarro: Pizarro conquered the Inca Empire in present-day Peru in the 1530s. This conquest led to the establishment of Spanish rule in the region and the exploitation of its rich resources.

5. Juan Ponce de León: Ponce de León is known for exploring and naming Florida in 1513. His expedition marked the first recorded European contact with the area that would later become part of the United States.

These achievements by Spanish explorers during the Age of Exploration significantly expanded Spain's empire, brought immense wealth to the Spanish crown, and paved the way for further European colonization in the Americas.