What were the motivations behind the Spanish conquistadors' exploration of new trade routes?

What were the motivations behind the Spanish conquistadors' exploration of new trade routes?

The motivations behind the Spanish conquistadors' exploration of new trade routes were primarily driven by economic factors, religious zeal, and the desire for fame and glory.

Economically, the Spanish conquistadors sought to find new trade routes to bypass the Ottoman Empire, which controlled the lucrative Silk Road trade. By discovering alternative routes, they aimed to establish direct access to the valuable goods of the East, such as spices, silk, and precious metals, in order to increase their wealth and power.

Religious zeal also played a significant role in their exploration. The Spanish conquistadors were fervently Catholic and saw their expeditions as an opportunity to spread Christianity to new lands. They believed that by conquering and converting indigenous peoples, they were fulfilling their religious duty and bringing salvation to the "heathens."

Furthermore, the conquistadors were driven by the desire for fame and glory. They sought to carve out a name for themselves and gain recognition from the Spanish crown and society. The conquest of new territories and the discovery of riches were seen as a means to achieve social status and prestige.

Overall, the motivations behind the Spanish conquistadors' exploration of new trade routes were a combination of economic interests, religious fervor, and the pursuit of personal glory. These factors fueled their ambition to expand Spanish influence, accumulate wealth, and spread Christianity during the Age of Exploration.