What economic activities did the Spanish participate in while exploring new world?

The Spanish were primarily interested in finding precious metals, such as gold and silver, in the New World. They established mines in many areas, including Mexico, Peru, and Bolivia, and forced indigenous peoples to work in these mines under harsh conditions.

Agriculture

The Spanish also sought to establish agricultural colonies in the New World, where they could grow crops such as sugar, tobacco, and cotton. They often used enslaved African workers to cultivate these crops on large plantations.

Trade

The Spanish established trade routes between the New World and Europe, and they exported goods such as sugar, tobacco, and cotton back to Europe. They also imported goods from Europe, such as manufactured goods, weapons, and animals.

Fishing

The Spanish fished in the waters off the coast of the New World, and they caught fish such as cod, mackerel, and tuna. They salted and dried these fish to preserve them, and they exported them back to Europe.

Pearl Diving

The Spanish also participated in pearl diving in the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of California. They used indigenous peoples to dive for pearls, and they sold the pearls in Europe.

Logging

The Spanish cut down trees in the New World to build ships, houses, and other structures. They also used trees to produce lumber, which they exported to Europe.