The Spanish treatment of Indigenous people improved over time primarily due to a combination of reform efforts and advocacy by individuals and groups, particularly the Catholic Church.
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Reform of the Encomienda System: The encomienda system, which originally allowed Spanish colonizers to demand tribute and labor from Indigenous people, faced criticism for its abuses. Over time, the Spanish crown implemented reforms intending to protect Indigenous rights, such as the Nueva Planta (New Laws) of 1542, which aimed to reduce the harshness of this system and protect Indigenous people from exploitation.
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Advocacy from Religious Orders: Groups like the Dominicans and Jesuits played a crucial role in advocating for better treatment of Indigenous populations. They highlighted the need for humane treatment and sought to educate both the Indigenous people and Spanish settlers about more equitable relationships. Their approach to missionary work evolved into a more compassionate method, focusing on dialogue and respect for Indigenous cultures.
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Moral Perspectives: Some Spanish settlers began to recognize the ethical implications of their actions and sought to treat Indigenous peoples more humanely. This shift was influenced by a mix of moral, religious, and practical considerations, such as the realization that a more amicable relationship could lead to better labor conditions and increased cooperation.
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Increased Presence of Missionaries: The increase in missionaries worked towards integrating Indigenous people into Spanish colonial society in a more respectful manner. This included education and the establishment of community services that benefited Indigenous populations.
In summary, improvements in the treatment of Indigenous people were largely driven by reforms in colonial policy, advocacy from the church, changing moral attitudes among settlers, and the outreach of missionaries aiming for a more respectful interaction with Indigenous communities.