The Spanish made territorial claims in the Caribbean Sea
because of Christopher Columbus. He supposed sailing across the Atlantic would
be the fastest way to the Indies, but he ran into America first. After Columbus
reported his voyage a success, Spain started sending over conquistadors, or
soldiers, to grow their empire. Hernan Cortes conquered the Aztec capital with
the help of smallpox and rebellious Indians. He then tore it down and used its pebbles
to build the Spanish empire's capital, Mexico City. Francisco Pizarro dominated
the Incas. He took their king captive, demanding gold in return for his freedom.
He got the gold, but killed the King in its place. He replaced himself as their
leader, and they were powerless to rebel because they were weakened by
smallpox.
