The Spanish Empire was one of the largest empires in history, spanning across the Americas, parts of Europe, Africa, and Asia from the late 15th century until the early 19th century. It was established following the voyages of Christopher Columbus and was characterized by its vast territories and wealth derived from resources like gold and silver. At its height, the empire played a crucial role in global trade and cultural exchange, influencing languages, religions, and societies. The decline of the Spanish Empire began in the late 17th century, leading to independence movements in Latin America and the eventual loss of most of its territories by the 19th century.