Conflict in the Early Americas

Book excerpt: This detailed study is the only reference work of its kind to address Spain's conquest of Central and South America, providing in-depth coverage of native and European ideologies, political motivations, and cultural practices of the region. As the study of world history evolves from a Eurocentric perspective to a more global viewpoint, formerly marginalized groups are now the focus of discussion, revealing a background rich with important military, political, social, and economic achievements. This book examines the once prosperous and powerful native civilizations in Central and South America, discussing the key individuals, strategies, and politics that made these countries strong and indomitable. In spite of this, the author shows how, in only a few generations, Spain defeated these mini-empires, eventually dominating much of the Western Hemisphere. Conflict in the Early Americas: An Encyclopedia of the Spanish Empire's Aztec, Incan, and Mayan Conquests focuses primarily on the defeat of the Aztec, Incan, and Mayan civilizations, but also includes Spanish interactions with lesser-known native groups. Supporting documents including primary sources, maps, and visual aids provide necessary context to this once-untold story.