What did the conquest of South America result in during the 16th century?

The conquest of South America in the 16th century played a crucial role in the establishment of a wider world economic system, primarily due to the influx of precious metals like gold and silver, which significantly impacted global trade dynamics. The extraction of these resources from the newly conquered territories allowed European nations, particularly Spain, to amass wealth and facilitate trade with other regions, thus integrating South America into the emerging global economy.

As European powers expanded their colonial empires, they developed extensive trade networks connecting Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Americas. This integration contributed not only to the wealth of European nations but also to the rise of mercantilism, where colonies supplied raw materials and served as markets for finished goods. The economic relationships that formed were foundational in creating a more interconnected world, influencing agriculture, trade patterns, and cultural exchanges.

In this context, religious reforms, scientific advancements, and mass-market reading, while notable in their own rights, were not direct or immediate results of the conquest itself. They developed as part of broader societal changes occurring over time, influenced by various factors beyond the scope of the conquests.