During the Age of Discovery, Spain primarily colonized regions across the Americas, particularly in Central and South America. Following Christopher Columbus's voyages in the late 15th century, Spanish explorers and conquistadors, such as Hernán Cortés and Francisco Pizarro, led expeditions that resulted in the establishment of vast colonial territories. These conquests allowed Spain to exert significant power and influence, leading to the establishment of a colonial empire that spanned much of North and South America. The culture, language, and religion brought by the Spanish significantly shaped the historical and social landscapes of these regions.