Why did the Spanish establish a presence in the Southwest region of the present-day United States?

The establishment of a Spanish presence in the Southwest region of present-day United States was primarily driven by the goal of colonizing territories and converting Native Americans to Christianity. This objective was a central element of Spanish colonial policy during the Age of Exploration. The Spanish crown viewed the conversion of Indigenous peoples to Christianity, especially Catholicism, as a moral duty and a way to expand the influence of the Catholic Church.

In conjunction with missionary efforts, Spanish colonization also involved establishing settlements, missions, and presidios (military forts) to facilitate control over the vast territory and engage with Native American communities. This approach was evident in the missions founded throughout the region, where missionaries sought to evangelize Indigenous populations while Spanish settlers occupied and developed the land.

Thus, while aspirations for economic opportunities, such as mining and agriculture, were certainly present, the overarching goal of spreading Christianity and securing Spanish territorial claims distinguished this movement.