This Source Paper on Fray Bartolomé de las Casas examines his role as a defender of Indigenous rights during the early period of Spanish colonization in the Americas. De las Casas, a Dominican friar, is renowned for his writings that condemned the brutal treatment of Indigenous peoples by Spanish ...
Ceniya Jefferson
Source Paper 2
World Civilization II
09/24/2023
INTRODUCTION
Fray Bartolome De Las Casas was a controversial figure, what led separate stances all
around Colonial Latin America. There is an undefended reasoning for his legacy, but a dispute
over his roles he led. The crucial religious member whom also partook in political and activities
shows the variety one can present to the world but a disagreement amongst historians and the
public.
STANCE
The work Las Casas did was morally correct and to use his authority and help those
opposite of him. The Indians, black salves, ideas to change life as it was, were major works he
devoted to. However, his role of political activities claim no remorse or compassion but slight
exposure of those beneath him, meaning his intention were not morally correct. It’s a quantum
because with the natives being weakened and dying, the Spanish King requested African
replacements but was blamed on Las Cases because of his recommendations. Whether true or
false accusations to base his inquiry, the evidence is in the history of events. He received special
recognition for changing the experience of preparing a serum and following into Catholicism.
Next, the war over the Spaniard’s and Natives, led Las Cases to debate with Juan Sepulveda to
fight for justice. He witnessed inhumane acts given to natives when the Spaniard’s arrived.
“…Casas began to have a change of heart after participating in an expedition [in which] he
witnessed horrible acts against the Indians.” (Scholarworks.com) The event led to him writing A
Short Account of the Destruction of the Indies. Las Cases received mixed reactions but had
successful claims. After, he went on to advocate for black slaves but was held accountable for
exposure of the idea in the New World developments. Lastly was attacks in the church. Due to
Las Casa’s beliefs but spiraling activities outside had his career as a priest to tarnish.
ARGUMENT
Las Casas had many roles in his career along with church affiliations, but his activism
work led him to detriment. He had no remorse for those dying and under shackles, and had
accusations piling everywhere he went. He cared for the Indians because of his early exposure to
them and trying to justify them now and spoke out on black slavery but ended up introducing the
idea of it continuing as the world develops. “Historians who held him responsible for the
introduction of black slavery in the New World point to the recommendation given by Las Casas
to the crown as evidence to support their accusations.” (Scholarworks.calstate.edu) All the while,
being apart from communities and having claims follow him, being held responsible for, and
using others for personal gain. Once he became a priest, he was hesitant to renounce both land
and slaves.
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