Who were the "conquistadors"?

The term "conquistadors" specifically refers to the Spanish explorers and soldiers who ventured into the Americas during the Age of Discovery with the intent of conquering new territories for Spain. These individuals played a significant role in the Spanish colonization of parts of North and South America, often driven by the desire for wealth and glory, as well as a mission to spread Christianity. Notable conquistadors include Hernán Cortés, who led the expedition that resulted in the fall of the Aztec Empire, and Francisco Pizarro, who conquered the Inca Empire.

The other options represent distinct groups or themes that are not related to the concept of conquistadors. Native American leaders focused on resisting encroachments on their lands rather than conquering territories for Spain. Spanish artists and musicians, while significant in their own right during the Renaissance, do not pertain to the conquests of the Americas. Finally, the reference to the first American settlers in Jamestown is associated with English colonization, which occurred later and in a different context than that of the Spanish conquistadors.