The document summarizes key aspects of European expeditions and conquests in the Americas following Columbus' arrival, as well as the subsequent organization and society of the Spanish Empire in the New World. It describes expeditions led by Hernan Cortes who conquered the Aztec Empire and Francisco Pizarro who conquered the Inca Empire. It outlines the Council of the Indies and establishment of Viceroyalties to administer New Spain and Peru. The document also briefly discusses the economy, including silver mining and trade through Seville, as well as the stratified society that developed in the colonies.