What Role Did The 1573 Ordinances Issued By King Philip II Of Spain, Specifically The Ones Regulating The Treatment And Conversion Of Native Americans In The New World, Have On The Implementation Of The Reducción System In The Southwestern Regions Of What Is Now The United States, Particularly In The Provinces Of Santa Fe De Nuevo México And Tejas, And How Did This Influence The Development Of Pueblo-Spanish Relations During The 17th Century?

The 1573 ordinances issued by King Philip II of Spain played a crucial role in shaping the reducción system in the southwestern regions of what is now the United States, particularly in Santa Fe de Nuevo México and Tejas. These ordinances aimed to regulate the treatment and conversion of Native Americans, emphasizing peaceful evangelization and prohibiting the use of force. They were part of a broader effort to structure Spanish colonial policy, influencing the implementation of the reducción system by promoting the resettlement of Native Americans into mission towns for conversion and integration into Spanish society.

In practice, however, the implementation of the reducción system often diverged from the ideals set forth in the ordinances. Despite the emphasis on voluntary conversion and fair treatment, there were instances of forced labor and exploitation, leading to significant tensions with Native populations. The Pueblo peoples, in particular, faced disruption to their traditional ways of life, which contributed to growing resistance.

The Pueblo-Spanish relations during the 17th century were marked by this tension. The reducción system, while intended to facilitate conversion and assimilation, often resulted in coercion and economic exploitation, fostering resentment. The paternalistic attitude of the Spanish, who viewed the Pueblo as needing civilization, further strained relations. These factors culminated in the Pueblo Revolt of 1680, a significant uprising against Spanish rule.

In summary, the 1573 ordinances provided a framework for the reducción system, emphasizing peaceful conversion and regulation. However, the practical implementation in New Mexico and Tejas often fell short of these ideals, leading to coercion and exploitation. This contributed to strained Pueblo-Spanish relations, marked by mistrust and conflict, which ultimately led to the Pueblo Revolt and ongoing tensions throughout the 17th century.