Encomienda System and Its Impacts

The encomienda system was established by the Spanish in the Americas to exploit native labor for economic gain. It mirrored European feudalism, with Spanish conquerors granted land and native labor in exchange for protection and religious education. However, the system was abusive, leading to harsh conditions and significant native population decline, eventually contributing to the rise of the slave trade.

What was the primary purpose of the encomienda system?

• To spread Christianity

• To establish trade routes

• To build military alliances

• To profit from conquered lands

During which century did the Spanish Empire expand significantly in the Americas?

• 17th century

• 15th century

• 14th century

• 16th century

What was a key economic activity in the Spanish colonies under the encomienda system?

• Growing sugar cane

• Mining for gold

• Building ships

• Fishing

Who was granted land and labor under the encomienda system?

• European merchants

• Spanish priests

• Conquistadors

• Native American chiefs

How did the encomienda system resemble European feudalism?

• Both were based on land ownership and labor exchange

• Both were military alliances

• Both involved trade agreements

• Both focused on religious conversion

What were the Spanish expected to provide to the natives in exchange for labor?

• Land ownership

• Military training

• Trade opportunities

• Protection and education

What was a major consequence of the encomienda system on native populations?

• Political power

• Population decline

• Cultural exchange

• Increased wealth

What triggered the eventual slave trade in the Americas?

• The discovery of gold

• The decline of native populations

• The need for more land

• The spread of Christianity

What was a significant negative aspect of the encomienda system?

• Lack of resources

• Harsh labor conditions

• Limited trade routes

• Poor military defense

What did the Spanish promise to teach the natives under the encomienda system?

• Military tactics

• Agricultural techniques

• Christianity

• Spanish language