Final answer:
The Spanish conquistadors were primarily motivated by 3) the pursuit of wealth and resources, the spread of Christianity, and the expansion of the Spanish Empire for 'God, Gold, and Glory'. Wealth was sought through precious metals and exploitation of native labor, while spreading Christianity complemented their imperial goals.
Step-by-step explanation:
Motivations behind the Spanish Conquistadors' Attraction to the New World
The Spanish conquistadors were attracted to the New World by a combination of factors.
They sought to find new trade routes, spread Christianity, acquire wealth, and establish colonies. 3) The desire for wealth and resources was a significant motivator, as exemplified by the expeditions of Hernán Cortés to the Aztec Empire and Francisco Pizarro to the Inca Empire.
Their goals included accessing precious metals like gold and silver and profiting from the labor of indigenous peoples through systems like the encomienda.
Spreading Christianity was also a key motive, especially given the backdrop of religious upheaval in Europe and the ongoing conflict with Islam.
Through exploration and colonization, Spain and Portugal aimed to expand the influence of Catholicism. Additionally, the establishment of colonies allowed Spain to extend its empire and strengthen its global power. The term "God, Gold, and Glory" summarizes the multifaceted motivations of the conquistadors.