The geographical discoveries transformed the European understanding of the world. It led to the redrawing of the world map. As a result of the discovery of new lands and new sea routes, the economic centre of Europe, shifted from the Italian city states to Spain and Portugal. Both Spain and Portugal established colonies that led to their economic prosperity.
Spanish discovery of the New World led to the conquest of Mexico and South America. The voyage of Columbus was followed by further explorations by Spanish Conquistadors (Conquerors) who defeated the natives and colonized it. They brutally killed the natives in their conquest and The the remaining were employed under harsh conditions in gold and silver mines, and in plantations. The Spanish genocide of the natives included massacre, slavery and destruction of culture. Many natives also died because of epidemic diseases brought by the colonizers.
