Question 1

The main cash crops exported from the early Spanish colonies were

Accepted Answer

The main cash crops exported from the early Spanish colonies were sugar, tobacco, and indigo.

Question 2

Describe and discuss the actions of Hernán Cortés with regard to the Aztec society he encountered. Evaluate his actions in two ways: first, as they were viewed by his contemporaries, and second, as they appear to us today.

Accepted Answer

Hernán Cortés, a Spanish conquistador, is known for his actions in the conquest of the Aztec society in the early 16th century. His actions were viewed differently by his contemporaries and are also evaluated differently by us today.

First, let's discuss how his actions were viewed by his contemporaries. Many of his contemporaries saw Cortés as a brave and ambitious leader who was determined to expand the Spanish empire. They admired his military tactics and strategic alliances with other indigenous groups that helped him overthrow the Aztec empire. His contemporaries also praised his ability to adapt to the new environment and his leadership skills in managing his troops.

However, there were also some who criticized Cortés for his ruthless and brutal tactics in dealing with the Aztecs. His use of violence, deception, and manipulation to achieve his goals was seen as controversial and unethical by some of his contemporaries. There were also concerns about the impact of his actions on the indigenous population and the destruction of their culture and society.

Now, let's evaluate his actions from a modern perspective. Today, Cortés' actions are often seen as a symbol of European colonialism and the devastating impact it had on indigenous societies. His conquest of the Aztec society led to the destruction of their civilization, the loss of their cultural heritage, and the exploitation of their resources. His use of force and violence to achieve his goals is now viewed as a violation of human rights and a tragic example of the consequences of imperialism.

Furthermore, there is a growing recognition of the resilience and sophistication of the Aztec society, which was often overlooked or misrepresented by Cortés and his contemporaries. Modern perspectives also highlight the importance of understanding and respecting different cultures and the need for ethical and responsible interactions between different societies.

In conclusion, Hernán Cortés' actions in the conquest of the Aztec society were viewed differently by his contemporaries and are evaluated differently by us today. While some admired his bravery and leadership, others criticized his ruthless tactics. From a modern perspective, his actions are seen as a tragic example of the devastating impact of European colonialism on indigenous societies. It is important to learn from history and strive for a more inclusive and respectful approach to different cultures and societies.

Question 3

Early exports from the Spanish colonies consisted mainly of

Accepted Answer

The early exports from the Spanish colonies consisted mainly of precious metals such as gold and silver.

Question 4

Describe the main elements involved in the Columbian Exchange, and evaluate the significance of this interchange.

Accepted Answer

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Question 5

The fabled American "mountain of silver" was located at

Accepted Answer

The fabled American "mountain of silver" is a reference to the legendary wealth produced by the silver mines of Potosí, located in modern-day Bolivia.

Question 6

Spanish exploration in the Caribbean was dominated by

Accepted Answer

Spanish exploration in the Caribbean was primarily driven by the search for treasure, such as precious metals and jewels. This was exemplified by the Spanish conquistadors' actions in the Aztec and Inca Empires, where they plundered vast amounts of gold and silver.

Question 7

As the 19^th century approached, criollos living in Latin America began to

Accepted Answer

As the 19th century approached, criollos (people of Spanish descent born in Latin America) began to question their second-class status in Spain and the possibility of their situation never reverting to what it had been. This led to a growing desire for independence and the eventual wars of independence in the early 19th century.

Question 8

Viceroys of Spain and Peru were always

Accepted Answer

Viceroys were appointed by the Spanish crown and were typically high-ranking nobles from Spain. It was uncommon for someone born in the Americas (criollo) to be appointed as a viceroy. Therefore, the best choice is B) Iberian born.

Question 9

With their capital at Mexico City, the Spanish apparently concluded that

Accepted Answer

The statement mentions that the Spanish had their capital at Mexico City, indicating that they had already established their authority over the central regions of Mexico. The forts of San Francisco and Santa Fe were situated far away from Mexico City, and so the Spanish may have felt that it was not worth extending their rule so far away. Therefore, the best choice is D) the forts of San Francisco and Santa Fe were as far away as they cared to rule.

Question 10

The encomienda gave Spanish conquerors the right to

Accepted Answer

The encomienda system allowed Spanish conquerors to demand labor and tribute from the indigenous people in exchange for protection and conversion to Christianity, but it did not grant rights to expropriate land or keep half of the mined resources.

Question 11

Because it was necessary for every person in Brazil to work together for survival and success, the Portuguese colony became

Accepted Answer

The statement "it was necessary for every person in Brazil to work together for survival and success" suggests a sense of cooperation and shared goals. This kind of environment could lead to a more egalitarian society, where people are more equal in status and opportunities.

Question 12

Cultural and educational matters concerning both Europeans and Indians were handled by

Accepted Answer

The answer of Cultural and educational matters concerning both Europeans...

Question 13

Hernán Cortés began the construction of Mexico City with

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The answer of Hernán Cortés began the construction of Mexico...

Question 14

Aside from the growing European market for imports from Spanish colonies, a major reason for the increasing harshness of forced labor was primarily the result of

Accepted Answer

The answer of Aside from the growing European market for...

Question 15

Criollos were

Accepted Answer

Criollos were people of Spanish parentage who were born in the colonies of Latin America. They were not native-born Iberians, Spaniards living in Mexico, missionaries, local justices or assistants to the viceroys.

Question 16

List and describe the Spanish Viceroyalties in America. How were officials selected? Under what conditions did they operate? Explain how the system of government changed over time, and give reasons for that change.

Accepted Answer

The answer of List and describe the Spanish Viceroyalties in...

Question 17

The Spanish audiencia was a

Accepted Answer

The Spanish audiencia refers to a court system in Spanish colonial America.

Question 18

Describe and evaluate the significance of the Catholic Church to Latin American society. To what degree were the missionaries accepted? How were the missions set up? What sorts of "mixing" of religious beliefs and practices took place?

Accepted Answer

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Question 19

Nearly all of the early trade to and from Spanish America was channeled through the port of

Accepted Answer

The vast majority of trade to and from Spanish America during the early colonial period was controlled by the Casa de Contratación (House of Trade) in Seville, which was responsible for regulating all shipping between Spain and its overseas colonies. Therefore, the correct choice is D) Seville.

Question 20

Trace the evolution of plantation agriculture in the European colonies of the Caribbean. What sorts of problems did the owners face? How did they deal with these issues?

Accepted Answer

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Quiz 28: From Conquest to Colonies in Hispanic America