Spain established a vast empire in the Americas, and one of the ways it protected its settlements was by building a network of missions and forts. Missions were religious outposts that were often used to convert Native Americans to Christianity. They also served as centers of Spanish culture and influence in the Americas. Forts were military installations that were used to defend Spanish settlements from attack by Native Americans and other enemies.
The missions and forts were often located in strategic locations, such as on the coast or near major rivers. They were also built in areas where there were large concentrations of Native Americans. The missions and forts helped Spain to control the Americas and to spread its influence throughout the region.
