In complete sentences, describe how spain established territorial claims in the caribbean and south america. include these terms in your christopher columbus, conquistadors, hernán cortés, francisco pizarro

The Spanish made territorial claims in the Caribbean Sea because of Christopher Columbus. He supposed sailing across the Atlantic would be the fastest way to the Indies, but he ran into America first. After Columbus reported his voyage a success, Spain started sending over conquistadors, or soldiers, to grow their empire. Hernan Cortes conquered the Aztec capital with the help of smallpox and rebellious Indians. He then tore it down and used its pebbles to build the Spanish empire's capital, Mexico City. Francisco Pizarro dominated the Incas. He took their king captive, demanding gold in return for his freedom. He got the gold, but killed the King in its place. He replaced himself as their leader, and they were powerless to rebel because they were weakened by smallpox.