Question

In 3–5 sentences, analyze a characteristic of Spanish or Portuguese colonial rule. Determine if it would be considered a strength or weakness of colonial rule and explain why.

Answer 1

One notable characteristic of Spanish colonial rule was the encomienda system, which granted colonists the right to demand labor and tribute from Indigenous populations. This system can be considered a weakness of colonial rule because, although it initially facilitated economic exploitation, it fostered resentment among Indigenous communities and led to significant social unrest and resistance. Furthermore, the brutality of the system contributed to the rapid decline of Indigenous populations due to overwork and disease, ultimately undermining the very economic foundations that colonial powers sought to establish. This cycle of dependency and exploitation often weakened the long-term sustainability of colonial authority.