How to Revise The Voyages of Discovery and Conquest of the Americas, 1492-1522 — WJEC GCSE History
The Voyages of Discovery and Conquest of the Americas, 1492-1522 is a topic in the WJEC GCSE History specification. This guide covers learning objectives, examiner tips, common mistakes, and key terminology to help you revise effectively.
Examiner Tips for The Voyages of Discovery and Conquest of the Americas, 1492-1522
- Use a range of historical sources to address key questions.
- Develop an awareness of how aspects of the period have been represented and interpreted.
- Consider wider historical debates regarding the period.
Key Marking Points
- Factors contributing to European voyages of discovery (power of Spain/Portugal, search for new routes, trade, religion, technology)
- Significance of Columbus's voyages (1492, 1493, settlement at Hispaniola, treatment of native populations)
- Developments in exploration (Diaz, de Gama, Vespucci, Magellan 1519-22, Spanish settlement of Central America 1509-10)
- Features of Aztec civilization (rule, tribute, beliefs, codices, sacrifice, Tenochtitlan)
- Role of Hernan Cortes (relations with Velazquez, mission to Mexico, alliances with indigenous peoples, massacre at Cholula)
- Defeat of the Aztecs (ransom of Montezuma, expulsion, siege of Tenochtitlan, establishment of Mexico City)