Final answer:
The Mita system was a form of forced labor in the Spanish colonies whereby indigenous peoples were conscripted to work for a certain period each year under severe conditions.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Mita system refers to a colonial-era labor practice in the Spanish Empire, particularly within areas controlled by the Spanish that were formerly part of the Inca Empire. This system was used to conscript indigenous labor for work in the mines, on plantations, and in other sectors necessary for the colonial economy. Under the auspices of the Mita, a percentage of the native population was designated for forced labor (forced labor) for a certain period each year. While similar to the encomienda system, whereby Spanish settlers were granted authority over native labor and lands, the Mita was particularly infamous for its harsh conditions and significant impact on the indigenous population.