History The Spanish Conquistadors Questions Medium
The motivations behind the Spanish conquistadors' search for mythical cities and treasures were primarily driven by a combination of economic, religious, and personal ambitions.
Economically, the conquistadors sought to acquire vast amounts of wealth and resources. Spain was experiencing economic difficulties during the 16th century, and the conquistadors saw the exploration and conquest of new territories as an opportunity to acquire gold, silver, and other valuable commodities. The lure of unimaginable riches motivated them to embark on dangerous expeditions in search of mythical cities like El Dorado or Cibola, which were believed to be filled with untold treasures.
Religiously, the conquistadors were driven by a desire to spread Christianity and convert indigenous populations to Catholicism. They saw themselves as soldiers of God, on a mission to bring salvation to the native peoples they encountered. The belief that they were fulfilling a divine mandate gave them a sense of purpose and justified their actions, including the plundering of indigenous civilizations in their quest for wealth.
On a personal level, the conquistadors were often motivated by a thirst for fame, glory, and social advancement. Many of them were ambitious individuals seeking to make a name for themselves and gain recognition from the Spanish crown. By discovering new lands, conquering indigenous civilizations, and bringing back riches, they hoped to elevate their social status and secure their place in history.
In summary, the motivations behind the Spanish conquistadors' search for mythical cities and treasures were driven by economic desires for wealth, religious aspirations to spread Christianity, and personal ambitions for fame and social advancement.