Encomienda was
A)a special title given to Spanish explorers of the New World.
B)a religious ceremony.
C)a Spanish-run community of assimilated Indians.
D)the uniform worn by conquistadores.
E)the right to exact tribute and labor from natives.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Encomienda was a system implemented by the Spanish colonial authorities in the New World. Under this system, Spanish elites were granted the right to extract labor and tribute from the native population. This was a way to reward explorers and soldiers for their service to Spain, and to establish colonial economic structures in the New World. The natives were expected to work in exchange for protection and religious instruction. However, the system often led to abuse, exploitation, and the decline of native populations.

Encomienda Was