In the 16th century, the news that were coming from the American territories had a great impact and led to many speculations being made about Spain throughout the rest of Europe. On one hand, they spoke of the riches and marvels of the “New World”, while on the other they spread ideas about how the Spaniards and more specifically, the Catholics, exploited the natives and how they were incredibly cruel and intolerant. The spread of this information through an oral channel, as well as being recorded through writings and paintings, was known as the Black Legend (la Leyenda Negra). Who promoted these ideas, and why were these ideas promoted? This work explores the possible reasons for the spread of the Black Legend of the Spanish colonies and looks at the works that were created to combat it.