what spanish policy granted land and the indians living on it to spanish soldier and colonists as a reward for service?
a. tribute system
b. encomienda
c. columbian exchange
d. protectorate
b. encomienda
The Spanish policy that granted land and the Indians living on it to Spanish soldiers and colonists as a reward for service is called the "encomienda" system (option b).
The correct answer is b. encomienda.
To find the answer to this question, you can use various methods. One way is to search for relevant information using a search engine or an online encyclopedia. Let's go through the options one by one to understand why "encomienda" is the correct choice.
a) Tribute System: The tribute system refers to the practice of collecting payments or goods from conquered peoples or territories. It does not relate directly to granting land and people as rewards.
b) Encomienda: The encomienda system was a Spanish policy that granted land and the indigenous people living on it to Spanish soldiers and colonists as a reward for their services. Those who received the encomienda, known as encomenderos, were expected to protect and take care of the indigenous population in return. While the system was initially intended to provide protection and evangelization, it often resulted in the exploitation and abuse of indigenous populations.
c) Columbian Exchange: The Columbian Exchange refers to the widespread transfer of plants, animals, diseases, and cultural elements between the Eastern and Western Hemispheres following Christopher Columbus' arrival in the Americas in 1492. Although it had a significant impact on the cultures and environments of both the Old and New Worlds, it is not related to land grants or the treatment of indigenous people.
d) Protectorate: A protectorate is a relationship between a dominant state and a weaker state, where the dominant state provides protection to the weaker state in exchange for some control or influence over its affairs. It does not specifically involve granting land and people as rewards to soldiers and colonists.
Therefore, the correct answer is b. encomienda, as it best matches the description of a Spanish policy granting land and the indigenous people living on it to Spanish soldiers and colonists as a reward for service.