Light

Gold and Silver Discovery in Americas (Peru)

Definition

The discovery and subsequent mining/extraction activities related to gold and silver deposits found mainly in South America (particularly Peru) during the 16th century by Spanish conquistadors.

Analogy

It's like finding a hidden treasure chest in a video game. The discovery of gold and silver in Peru was an unexpected bonus for the Spanish explorers, just as finding a treasure chest is for a gamer.

Related terms

Conquistadors: Spanish conquerors who came to the New World (Americas) in search of wealth and power during the 16th century.

Columbian Exchange: The widespread transfer of plants, animals, culture, human populations, technology, diseases, and ideas between the Americas and the Old World following Columbus' voyages to the Americas.

Mercantilism: An economic theory that trade generates wealth and is stimulated by accumulation of profitable balances; it led European nations to establish colonies for resource exploitation.