Answer:
The Treaty of Tordesillas in 1494 drew a north-to-south line through South America. Spain gained territory west of the line, while Portugal retained the lands east of the line, including the east coast of Brazil.
Although most of Latin America was colonized by Spain, the countries of Portugal and France also had major influences on the region. Due to war and disease, native populations were decimated. The European countries' demand for free labor led them to engage in the African slave trade.
Explanation:
How did Spain benefit from colonizing South America?
The Spanish conquest of Latin America brought many important changes to Latin American society. Spain sent royal governors or viceroys to rule the colonies in the king's name. Gold and silver from the Americas were shipped to Spain, making it the strongest power in Europe in the 16th century.
Why did the Spanish setup colonies in the Americas?
Motivations for colonization: Spain's colonization goals were to extract gold and silver from the Americas, to stimulate the Spanish economy and make Spain a more powerful country. Spain also aimed to convert Native Americans to Christianity.
