Chapter 2
Latin America
Shaped By Its HistorySection 3: European Conquest
A. As You Read
Directions: As you read Section 3, fill in the table below. Under each main idea, write two supporting details from Section 3.
The desire for new trade goods inspired Spain and Portugal to search for new trade routes to Asia.
1. Columbus sailed across the Atlantic Ocean in search of the riches of the East Indies and other parts of Asia.
2. Columbus's discovery set off a fierce rivalry between Spain and Portugal for land in the Americas.
Spain was able to organize its empire in the Americas and gain great wealth from its colonies there.
3. Spain divided its territory into provinces; the most important were New Spain and Peru; Native Americans were forced to work.
4. Native Americans were forced to work in Spanish-owned gold and silver mines; the most powerful citizens came from Spain or were descended from Spanish settlers.
B. Reviewing Key Terms
Directions: Complete each sentence by writing the correct term in the blank provided.5. Instead of paying them to explore, the rulers of Spain gave the conquistadors the right to hunt for treasure in America and to settle there.
6. Spanish settlers in Latin America could use encomiendas to demand taxes or labor from Native Americans.
7. An agreement that settles an argument about who controls lands or territories is a treaty.