Spanish colonization

**Spanish colonization** refers to the period during which Spain established control over vast territories in the Americas, starting in the late 15th century following Christopher Columbus’s voyages. This era is characterized by Spain’s exploration, conquest, and settlement of indigenous lands, leading to significant cultural, social, and political changes. The legacy of Spanish colonization includes the spread of the Spanish language, Catholicism, and European institutions, as well as profound impacts on indigenous populations and their cultures. This tag covers historical events, figures, and the lasting influence of Spanish colonial rule across the New World.