Spain -- Colonies -- Administration

Scope and Contents This collection contains a rare and significant royal decree issued by King Philip V of Spain on July 12, 1720, from San Lorenzo de El Escorial, abolishing the Encomienda system in the Spanish colonies of the Americas, with specific reference to Chile and Peru. The decree is signed in manuscript "yo el Rey" ("I the King") by Philip V and countersigned by several high-ranking Spanish officials. It references the minimal benefit derived from the Encomienda system in rewarding conquistadors and...