In 3 to 5 sentences, analyze one characteristic of either Spanish or Portuguese, colonial rule to determine how it was originally a strength for the Empire, but then developed into a weakness.

Answer 1

One characteristic of Spanish colonial rule that was initially a strength for the Empire was the encomienda system. This system allowed the Spanish crown to grant large land tracts to conquistadors, who in turn were granted the right to extract labor and tribute from the indigenous population. This arrangement enabled the Empire to make rapid territorial expansions and amass great wealth. However, this strength eventually turned into a weakness as the encomienda system led to harsh exploitation and abuse of the indigenous population, causing unrest and resistance. The mistreatment of indigenous peoples sparked both internal and external criticism of Spanish colonial rule, tarnishing the Empire's reputation and leading to eventual decline.