The "Conquest of the Americas" refers to the period during the 15th and 16th centuries when European powers, primarily Spain and Portugal, explored and colonized vast territories in the Americas. This era began with Christopher Columbus's voyage in 1492, leading to the establishment of European settlements and the exploitation of indigenous populations and resources. The conquest involved significant military campaigns, such as Hernán Cortés's defeat of the Aztec Empire and Francisco Pizarro's conquest of the Inca Empire. These events resulted in the widespread transfer of wealth to Europe, the spread of Christianity, and profound changes to the social and cultural landscapes of the Americas.