Question

Much of Spain's imperial wealth came from ______ mines in Mexico and Peru.

1) Gold
2) Silver
3) Copper
4) Diamonds

Answer 1

The correct answer is option 2. Much of Spain's imperial wealth came from silver mines in Mexico and Peru, which were so plentiful that they became the international currency of Europe and Asia. Silver from these mines was transported to trade with China, India, and other parts of the world.

Step-by-step explanation:

Much of Spain's imperial wealth came from silver mines in Mexico and Peru. Spanish silver coins called "pieces of eight" from the Cerro Rico and from similar mines in Zacatecas, Mexico, were so plentiful that they became the international currency of Europe and much of Asia. Every year between 1566 and 1815, a treasure fleet sailed from Acapulco to Manila laden with silver for the trade in China and India.

Another fleet carried not only precious metals but spices and expensive Chinese ceramics acquired in Asia from Veracruz to Spain.