Spanish Mission System
The Spanish Mission System was a network of religious and military outposts established by the Spanish in the Americas during the 16th to 19th centuries. Its primary goal was to convert Indigenous peoples to Christianity and to expand Spanish territorial claims. Missions often included a church, living quarters for missionaries, and agricultural areas to support the community.
These missions were particularly prominent in regions like California, Texas, and Florida. They played a significant role in the cultural exchange between Spanish settlers and Indigenous populations, influencing local languages, agriculture, and social structures. The legacy of the mission system can still be seen in many areas today.