The Native Point of View during the period of Spanish colonial rule in South America would likely emphasize the following perspectives:
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Indigenous Struggles: Indigenous peoples experienced significant oppression under Spanish rule, including the loss of land, culture, and autonomy. Their societies were often disrupted, and many were forced into servitude or subjected to harsh labor systems, such as the encomienda.
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Resistance and Resilience: Many indigenous groups resisted Spanish authority through armed conflict, maintaining their cultural practices and languages as acts of defiance. They often viewed the arrival of the Spanish as an invasion that violated their sovereignty.
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Social Hierarchical Conflicts: The social hierarchy established by the Spanish often placed Creoles (people of Spanish descent born in the Americas) above Indigenous peoples in terms of rights and privileges. From a Native perspective, this was a source of resentment, as Creoles who sought independence still often perpetuated systems of inequality.
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Desire for Self-Determination: Indigenous peoples may have had their own aspirations for self-determination and autonomy. While Bolívar and other leaders aimed for the liberation of their own societies from Spanish rule, Indigenous populations might have hoped for a different outcome that included recognition of their rights and autonomy.
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Complex Relationships with Revolutionary Leaders: Many Indigenous peoples may have viewed European-led revolutionary leaders like Simón Bolívar and José de San Martín with skepticism, given that their agendas often did not prioritize Indigenous rights. Their liberation movements could be seen as focusing primarily on Creole interests rather than those of Indigenous populations.
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Mixed Outcomes of Independence: While the independence movements led by Bolívar and others resulted in the end of Spanish colonial rule, the aftermath did not necessarily translate into better conditions for Indigenous communities. Many Indigenous groups continued to face marginalization and violence in the newly established republics.
In conclusion, the Native Point of View during this period would highlight the struggles against colonial oppression, the desire for equity and recognition, and the complex dynamics of post-colonial society that often left Indigenous peoples marginalized within the new independent nations.