Final answer:
Spain built its New World empire by conquering and colonizing territories, imposing strict economic controls over trade, and spreading Roman Catholicism through missionary work.
Step-by-step explanation:
Spain's Strategies for Building an Empire in the New World
To build an empire in the New World, Spain undertook several key actions. First, they conquered and colonized vast territories, including parts of the Caribbean, Mesoamerica, and the Andes, often by overthrowing established empires like the Aztecs and Incas. They recruited native allies and utilized a strategy of controlling the local leaders to establish their dominance.
Secondly, Spain implemented strict economic controls, allowing colonies to export only raw materials to Spain and import only Spanish finished goods. This system aimed at ensuring the profitability of their empire and keeping the wealth within the Spanish economy.
Lastly, Spain spread Roman Catholicism as a tool for both spiritual and ideological conquest, with missionaries playing a crucial role in this effort, establishing missions and interacting with the native populations to facilitate Spanish rule.