What impact did Spain’s New World endeavors have in Europe?

The riches of New Spain helped make the sixteenth century the Golden Age of Spain. After Queen Isabella and King Ferdinand died, their sixteen-year-old grandson became King Charles I of Spain in 1516. Three years later, just as Cortés ventured into Mexico, King Charles became Holy Roman Emperor Charles V. His empire encompassed more territory than that of any other European monarch. He used the wealth of New Spain to promote his interests in sixteenth-century Europe. He also sought to defend orthodox Christianity from the insurgent heresy of the Protestant Reformation. The power of the Spanish monarchy spread the message throughout sixteenth-century Europe that a New World empire could bankroll Old World ambitions.

> CHRONOLOGY

1517
  • Protestant Reformation begins in Germany.

1519
  • Charles I of Spain becomes Holy Roman Emperor Charles V.

1524
  • Giovanni da Verrazano explores Atlantic coast of North America for France.

1535
  • Jacques Cartier explores St. Lawrence River.

1576
  • Martin Frobisher explores northern Canadian waters.

1578/1583
  • Sir Humphrey Gilbert leads expeditions to Newfoundland.

1585
  • Sir Walter Raleigh leads colonial settlement at Roanoke Island.