What was the requiermento?

Answer 1

The term "requiermento" refers to a document issued by the Spanish crown in the early 16th century, which was meant to justify the colonization of the Americas. It outlined the rights of the Spanish to conquer indigenous lands, based on the belief that they were spreading Christianity and civilizing the indigenous populations. The requirement was often read to indigenous peoples before conquest, though it was rarely understood by them and largely served to legitimize Spanish actions. Ultimately, it reflects the colonial mindset and legal justifications used during the era of exploration.