In the early 1520s, Spanish colonizers, led by Hernán Cortés, began exporting cochineal dye from Mexico to Europe, revolutionizing the dye industry. This vibrant red dye, derived from the cochineal insect, became highly sought after for its superior quality and colorfastness. The introduction of cochineal significantly impacted European textiles and fashion, leading to a shift in dyeing practices. This trade also exemplified the broader economic exchanges between the New World and Europe during the age of exploration.

The Spanish import of cochineal dye in 1520 fueled a 'red craze' that permeated European fashion and art. This cultural shift was reflected in Golden Age Spanish poetry, where themes of empire and luxury became prominent, influencing the aesthetic sensibilities of poets like Luis de Góngora.