Conquistadors: The Rise and Fall, April 11, 2024, National Geographic, “A New World”

The upcoming episode of Conquistadors: The Rise and Fall explores the accidental discovery of the New World by Christopher Columbus and the subsequent age of exploration and conquest led by Spanish conquistadors.

The episode, titled “A New World,” provides insight into the motivations, challenges, and consequences of this pivotal moment in history. It was a time when European powers, led by Spain, sought to expand their influence and establish colonies in the newly discovered lands.

The conquistadors were explorer-soldiers, often coming from poor or lower noble backgrounds. They were driven by the promise of wealth, glory, and the spread of Catholicism to “heathen natives.” The Spanish crown and investors financed their expeditions, with the expectation of a substantial cut of any valuables discovered.

The conquistadors’ journeys were marked by both bravery and brutality. They formed alliances with some indigenous groups but also committed atrocities, exploiting and enslaving native populations. The spread of European diseases further decimated indigenous ranks, facilitating the conquistadors’ conquests.

Among the famous conquistadors featured in this episode are Hernán Cortés, who overthrew the Aztec Empire, and Francisco Pizarro, who, alongside Vasco Núñez de Balboa, discovered the Pacific Ocean and conquered Peru. The episode also delves into the life of Pedro de Alvarado, a typical conquistador from southwestern Spain, who sought his fortune in the New World.

The impact of the conquistadors extended beyond the battles and explorations. They left their mark on the cultural landscape, destroying temples and native codices while melting down golden artworks. The gold they sent back to Spain fueled a Golden Age of imperial expansion and cultural flourishing.

The episode concludes by examining the legacy of the conquistadors and how their exploits shaped the modern world, for better and for worse.

Conquistadors: The Rise and Fall airs on National Geographic at 9:00 pm on April 11, 2024.