The primary way that Spanish settlers expected to make money in the New World was through mining. They wanted to find gold, silver, and other precious metals. The Spanish believed that these metals would make them rich. This was a common belief at the time, as gold and silver were seen as symbols of wealth and power.
Farming
Another way that Spanish settlers expected to make money in the New World was through farming. They brought plants and animals from Europe to grow and raise in the Americas. They also took over land from the Native Americans and used it for farming. The Spanish grew a variety of crops, including corn, wheat, and sugar. They also raised cattle, pigs, and horses.
Trade
Spanish settlers also expected to make money through trade. They traded with the Native Americans for food, furs, and other goods. They also traded with other European countries, such as England and France. The Spanish exported goods from the New World to Europe, such as sugar, tobacco, and cotton. They imported goods from Europe to the New World, such as manufactured goods and luxury items.
* Encomiendas. This system granted Spanish settlers the right to collect tribute from Native Americans in a specific area in exchange for providing them with protection and religious instruction.
* Repartimientos. This system required Native Americans to provide labor for Spanish settlers in exchange for food and shelter.
* Mita. This system forced Native Americans to work in mines or other industries for a set period of time.