Functions and Transformations of Gold in the Conquest of Mexico

• In Event: The Promises of Gold: Materialized Desires and Social Phantasms in Economy, Art, and Science I

Abstract

It has been widely accepted by scholars that tales and promises of the abundance of gold potentially to be obtained in the 'New World' (e.g. El Dorado) served as incentives for the Spanish conquistadors. The Crown was likewise interested in gold, taking legal and administrative measures to guarantee it received the 'royal fifth' (quinto real) of everything gained in the conquests. The king's part was mainly delivered in gold bullions, which caused the melting of the vast majority of indigenous golden artifacts. This conversion of the indigenous cultural values of gold into European economic values demonstrates but one of its manifold transformations. Based on archival sources, this paper analyzes the varying forms and functions of gold in the Conquista. I will argue that for the common conquistador its importance as a reward fell short compared to its significance as an incentive.

Author

• Vitus Huber, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München