Spanish colonization brought wealth and power to Spain, but it also imposed coercive systems of labor on Indigenous peoples. This lesson examines the encomienda system, its effects, and the criticism it inspired.
Spain was the first European power to establish major colonies in North America after Christopher Columbus’s 1492 voyage. Spanish expansion was often described through the phrase “God, Gold, and Glory”: spreading Catholicism, acquiring wealth, and winning fame or power for Spain and individual conquistadors.
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What was the encomienda system?
A Spanish colonial system that granted an encomendero the right to demand labor or tribute from Indigenous people in a particular area. In theory, the grantee was supposed to provide protection and religious instruction.
Who was an encomendero?
A person granted an encomienda by the Spanish authorities. Encomenderos were often conquistadors, and many abused their authority to control Indigenous labor and land.
How did the Tlaxcalans become allies of Cortés?
They allied with Cortés during his war against the Aztec Empire, their traditional enemy. Some were later rewarded with encomiendas.
What role did Malintzin play in the conquest of the Aztec Empire?
Malintzin was Cortés’s chief interpreter. Her language skills and knowledge helped facilitate communication and alliances, and she later received an encomienda.
What was the black legend?
A claim that Spain was especially cruel in its imperial rule. It was rooted in real Spanish abuses but was also exaggerated by rival powers, including England, to justify their own colonial actions.
Quiz questions
What was an encomendero authorized to demand under the encomienda system?Answer: Labor or tribute from Indigenous communities in an assigned area.
What did the phrase “God, Gold, and Glory” describe?Answer: Spreading Catholicism, acquiring wealth, and winning fame or power.
Why did some Tlaxcalans receive encomiendas?Answer: They allied with Cortés against the Aztec Empire and were rewarded for their service.
What was the purpose of the New Laws of 1542?Answer: They sought to limit and ultimately end the encomienda system.
Which conclusion best reflects a careful comparison of Columbus and Las Casas?Answer: Their accounts reveal different perspectives and purposes, and neither should be treated as neutral.
Based on World History Volume 2, from 1400 by Ann Kordas, Ryan J. Lynch, Brooke Nelson, Julie Tatlock (OpenStax), licensed CC BY 4.0. Adapted into a summary, flashcards and quizzes.