The Spanish conquistadors sought a variety of riches and opportunities in the New World, most notably gold and silver. Their expeditions were primarily motivated by the desire for wealth, driven by the tales of vast treasures reported back to Spain. The promise of gold fueled the ambitions of many conquistadors, including Hernán Cortés in Mexico and Francisco Pizarro in Peru.
In addition to material wealth, many conquistadors also sought to spread Christianity among the indigenous peoples. They aimed to convert natives to Catholicism, believing it was their divine duty. This led to the establishment of missions and the large-scale religious conversion efforts that followed their conquests.
Land was another critical asset sought by the conquistadors. Establishing colonies and claiming territory for Spain was essential for the expansion of Spanish influence and control in the Americas. This territorial claim often resulted in the displacement and suffering of indigenous populations.
Overall, the Spanish conquistadors entered the New World with aspirations of wealth, religious expansion, and territorial acquisition, significantly shaping the course of history for both Europe and the Americas.