The Spanish Empire engaged in extensive colonization efforts across Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Americas from the late 15th century onward. Motivated by the pursuit of resources such as silver, gold, and agricultural products, as well as the desire to spread Christianity, Spanish explorers and conquerors established numerous colonies.
Independence:
Beginning of 1900, US took control of Philippines.
Why:
• Not that profitable
• A colony where Chinese goods were bought cheaply
When and Who:
• Beginning: Ferdinand Magellan in 1519
• Ruy Lopez de Villalobos between 1525-1542
• Miguel Lopez de Legazpi the first Governor-General in 1565.
European Colonies:
Independence:
* By late 1500s, Spain lost most of its territories.