The encomienda system granted what in colonial Spanish America?

The encomienda system granted what in colonial Spanish America?

• A. A Type Of Religious Mission
• B. Legal Rights To Native Labor Granted By The Crown
• C. A Treaty With Native Leaders
• D. A Cash Tax Paid By Colonists

Answer: (B)

Encomienda granted legal rights to Native labor to colonists under the Crown. The Crown awarded a settler the right to demand a specified amount of labor and tribute from indigenous communities in a given area, with the obligation to provide protection and some religious instruction. The effect was a system of forced labor and control over indigenous populations, rather than a mission, treaty, or tax. Although the intention included Christianization and protection, it led to exploitation and harsh working conditions, especially in mining and plantation economies. The system was later curtailed in attempts like the New Laws of 1542, but persisted in various forms.

Encomienda granted legal rights to Native labor to colonists under the Crown. The Crown awarded a settler the right to demand a specified amount of labor and tribute from indigenous communities in a given area, with the obligation to provide protection and some religious instruction. The effect was a system of forced labor and control over indigenous populations, rather than a mission, treaty, or tax. Although the intention included Christianization and protection, it led to exploitation and harsh working conditions, especially in mining and plantation economies. The system was later curtailed in attempts like the New Laws of 1542, but persisted in various forms.