Encomienda
A Spanish labor system that rewarded conquerors with the labor of subject people
Real World Example
The encomienda system was a Spanish labor system established during the colonization of the Americas, where Spanish conquerors were granted control over local indigenous people for labor and tribute. This system was significant during the Global Age from 1420 to 1750 as it allowed Spain to efficiently extract resources and wealth from the Americas, bolstering its economy and colonial power. It responded to the need for labor to exploit the New World's resources but led to severe exploitation and abuse of indigenous populations. The legacy of the encomienda system can still be seen today in discussions about workers' rights and fair labor practices, as it highlights the importance of treating workers with dignity and fairness. For example, modern movements advocating for ethical supply chains in industries like coffee or clothing emphasize the need to ensure fair wages and humane conditions for workers, echoing the historical lessons from the encomienda system.
