SPANISH EMPIRE Meaning and
Definition
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The Spanish Empire was the vast overseas territory that was under the control of the Spanish Crown during the Early Modern period, mainly between the 15th and 19th centuries. It comprised various colonies, dominions, territories, and trading posts, which were scattered across the globe and accounted for a significant portion of the known world at the time.
The Spanish Empire had its roots in the exploration and conquests carried out by Spanish explorers, most notably Christopher Columbus, who reached the Americas in 1492. From then on, Spain began a period of expansion, colonization, and dominance over the newly discovered lands, as well as its existing possessions that included territories in Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Pacific.
At its height in the 16th and 17th centuries, the Spanish Empire controlled vast territories, including present-day Mexico, parts of the United States, Central and South America, the Caribbean islands, the Philippines, as well as extensive territories in Africa and various holdings in Europe. This immense empire played a significant role in shaping global politics, culture, and trade during this era, influencing the development of many regions and leaving a lasting impact on the world.
However, the Spanish Empire experienced a gradual decline in power and influence, due to factors such as increasingly successful resistance movements, wars, economic struggles, and competition from other European powers. By the 19th century, many of Spain's colonies had gained independence, leading to the ultimate disintegration of the Spanish Empire.
Etymology of SPANISH EMPIRE
The term "Spanish Empire" refers to the overseas territories and colonies that were controlled by Spain between the 15th and 20th centuries. The word "Spanish" derives from the Latin word "Hispanicus", which means "pertaining to Hispania". Hispania was the ancient Roman name for the Iberian Peninsula, which encompasses present-day Spain and Portugal.
The term "empire" comes from the Latin word "imperium", which means "power" or "authority". It originally referred to the extensive dominion and rule of the Roman Empire. Over time, "empire" became a general term used to describe a large political entity or a group of territories under the control of a single ruler or governing authority.
The Spanish Empire emerged during the Age of Exploration and conquests in the 15th and 16th centuries.
