Kirsten+C

__Opposition to Spanish Rule__  Spanish priests worked Christianity in the Americas, as well as better treatment towards the Native Americans. They spoke out against the cruel and harsh treatment of the natives. The priests criticized the pattern of harsh labor that emerged under the //encomienda // system. To meet the colonies' need for labor, the Africans were Spain's first choice. Opposition to the Spanish method of colonization came not only from Spanish priests, but from the natives themselves. Natives in New Mexico fought Spanish rule as late as the 17th century. In 1680 a Pope led a well-organized rebellion against the Spanish.