Spanish Conquistadors And Priests To Establish Christianity In The New World

Throughout the colonization of the New World, Spanish conquistadors and priests were united in their belief that it was Spain's absolute right to establish Christianity in the Americas. However, there were differing opinions on the best methods for converting the indigenous peoples into Spanish subjects. Though Spanish conquistadors and priests never questioned Spain’s absolute right to establish Christianity in the New World, there were disagreements over the proper methods used to convert Indians into Spanish subjects.

On one hand, some believed that violence and coercion were necessary to force the conversion of the native populations. They argued that the indigenous peoples were uncivilized and needed to be brought under control through

They believed that conversion through education and example was the only true way to bring people to the Christian faith. For instance, “Once peace and amity with the Indians have been assured, the Spaniards will try to bring them together in one spot. Then the preachers, with as much solemnity as possible, will start to teach our Holy Faith to those who wish to be instructed in it, using prudence and discretion and the gentlest methods possible” (Phillip II, p.2). Here, part of the prior mentioned gentle approach is displayed through Phillip II’s eyes. Individuals, such as Phillip II, who practiced this approach thoroughly believed in an anti-violent tactic and rather took the moral route. These individuals often worked to educate the native populations, teaching them Spanish language and customs, and trying to lead by example in their own behavior. One significant individual named Father Antonio Montesino was a true advocate of this practice and did not back down when his beliefs of moral conversion came into conflict. For instance, “‘This voice,’ said he, ‘declares that you are in mortal sin, and live and die therein by reason of the cruelty and tyranny that you practice on these innocent people. Tell me, by what right or justice do you hold these Indians in such cruel and horrible slavery?’” (Montesinos, p.2). Although this quote highlights the sad truths of the negative treatment of the indigenous people during this time, it primarily expresses the “light in the dark” figure that Father Montesino and many other religious individuals played during the many disagreements within this dark time. Without the constant condemnation of the many violent approaches of this time, the religious conversion practice through education and reasoning would not have flourished and