What did Spanish settlers have to agree to in order to receive a land grant in New Mexico?
Spanish settlers in New Mexico had to agree to several conditions in order to receive a land grant. These conditions included:
1. Conversion to Catholicism: Spanish settlers were required to convert to Catholicism and have their children baptized.
2. Loyalty to the Spanish Crown: Settlers had to pledge their loyalty and allegiance to the Spanish Crown and defend Spanish territories from foreign invaders.
3. Provide for Defense: They were responsible for protecting and defending their land from Native American raids, as well as other potential threats.
4. Cultivate the Land: The settlers were required to cultivate and improve the land they were granted. They had to establish villages or ranches, build homes, and engage in agriculture or other productive activities.
5. Pay Tribute: Settlers were required to pay tribute, or taxes, to the Spanish Crown. This tribute usually consisted of a portion of their crops or livestock.
6. Maintain Relations with Native Americans: Spanish settlers had to maintain peaceful relations with the local Native American tribes and sometimes even provide them with assistance and protection.
7. Prohibition of Trade: They were prohibited from engaging in trade with other foreign countries, as the Spanish Crown wanted to maintain a monopoly over trade in the region.
These conditions were intended to ensure Spanish control, promote Catholicism, and encourage the development of the land.
A. Pay taxes for 10 years
B. Live on the land for 5 years
C. Live on the land for 10 years and improve it
D. Employ Native Americans for 10 years